By Elizabeth Contreras

At Owasso High School, the motto ‘Once a Ram, Always a Ram’ is a daily reality for senior Lilith Johnson, who lives it out alongside her cross country teammates. A four-year member of Owasso’s cross country program, Johnson first found her way into the sport in junior high when her art teacher, who also coached cross country, encouraged her to join offseason training.

While training six days a week, Johnson says it is the atmosphere and sense of community that motivate her to push through.

“Whenever I’m struggling in a race or a workout, I think about my teammates and the hard work we have put in to be here,” she says.

The connection between her teammates and the community made the 2024 state cross country meet unforgettable for Johnson. The energy, the posters, the shirts, and the cheering crowd reminded her that Owasso pride runs deep, even two hours from home.

“I just love that no matter what, we are always cheering for each other,” she adds, “My team pushes me to be my best; they are my biggest motivator, and I’m always excited to see them.”

During her sophomore track season, an injury sidelined Johnson, keeping her off the course and out of competition. Instead of taking a step back, Johnson leaned into recovery, visiting the trainers daily and finding strength and comfort in the encouragement of her teammates. “The one thing that really pushed me to overcome my injury was my teammates,” she says. “I just missed running with them.”

Now fully recovered, Johnson has set ambitious goals for this running season.

“My goals for this season are to run a 5k sub 18:30, finish all-state, and win another state championship for Owasso,” Johnson shares.

Running cross country has left a lasting impact on Johnson. The sport has taught her perseverance, discipline, and to approach everything with gratitude.

“Running has taught me how to push through hard times and give my best,” she says.

Johnson’s advice for aspiring runners is straightforward: surround yourself with support., keep your energy high with upbeat music, and trust that a positive mindset can get you through any run.

Through hard work, teamwork, and perseverance, Lilith Johnson embodies Owasso’s motto before, during, and after every race.