Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: Reese Lemberg runs at the state cross country meet for St. Edmond last fall.

Reese Lemberg needed to re-charge her batteries as she began her junior year at St. Edmond in the summer of 2022.

While it was a difficult decision to step away at the time, it turned out to be just what the current Gael senior needed.

“Taking some time off of cross country my junior year was really hard for me to do,” Lemberg said. “But ultimately, it showed me how much I love and missed the sport.

“I don’t regret taking the time off because it truly showed me the passion I have for running.”

Lemberg returned this past fall, helping the Gaels qualify again for the state championships. The team placed seventh overall in Class 1A, with Lemberg finishing 121st in a time of 22:55.5.

She is a current member of the St. Edmond track squad, competing in the 800 and 1,500.

“Being a Gael athlete over the years has brought me many friendships and experiences I won’t forget,” she said. “I have loved representing the green and white and will definitely miss the team and Gael community.”

Lemberg has also been involved in National Honor Society, and will be receiving her Service Cord at graduation.

“I will miss the Gael community most once I graduate,” she said. “The love and support this school has for their athletes is unmatched.

“I have made so many connections over the years that have truly changed my life for the better.”

TIMEOUT WITH REESE LEMBERG

Vacation destination: Europe.

It would surprise people that I: play the daily Sudoku.

My sports role model: Emma Coburn.

My everyday role model: my mom.

I can’t go a day without: Cherry Coke with a lime.

Nickname: Reesey Cup.

Superstition: listening to the same playlist on the bus.

Most heated rivalry: Manson Northwest Webster.

Favorite road trip: going to the lake in the summer.

What are you listening to right now? Tate McRae and Zach Bryan.

Go-to song: “Classic” by MKTO.

Favorites…

Athlete: Sydney McLaughlin.

Class: Service.

Movie: How To Lose A Guy in Ten Days.

Binge: TikTok.

Phone app: Instagram.