Mind over matter.

That's what Pine Forest High runner Darroneisha Lott believes is a necessary approach to becoming a top competitor in cross country.

She's right.

Lott put her mind over matter last weekend and took a stunning second-place finish at the Wildcat Invitational.

"I see (cross country) as a race against others," Lott said. "You've got to push yourself — mind over matter."

Washington's Peter Fricke, who came in third in the boys race, has a mind-set for the dedication this sport requires.