With the cross country season coming to an end, Pascack Valley Senior Patrick Kurtz has made it worthwhile as he will head to the Group II State Championship after winning the North I Group II State Sectionals.
“I knew from the start I could win,” Kurtz said. “I went out towards the front [during the] first mile. In the second mile, I slowed down a bit, but in the last mile, I gave it my all, and I caught the two [runners] that were in front of me.”
Coach John Murtaugh has nothing but praise for Kurtz, mentioning his growth and accomplishments.
“Being our number one runner, he certainly leads by example,” Murtaugh said. “Our team was not as deep (highly rostered) as it was last year, and we have runners that stuck it out to the bitter end and gave their best efforts. I’ve seen [Kurtz] mature from a shy and timid [freshman] to a confident, very athletic senior.”
Kurtz reflects the same attitude, crediting Murtaugh for his coaching.
“[Murtaugh] is a great coach,” said Kurtz. “[He is] always helpful, always has the best tips for anything, always knows what to do. [He’s] a great coach to have.”
Kurtz not only gives credit to Murtaugh but also recognizes his fellow runners.
“Having good teammates to run with makes it a lot more fun,” Kurtz said. “It’s good to have other people push you forward. We all push each other forward.”
Murtaugh praises Kurtz for his leadership and the ways he affects the underclassmen.
“This is one of the sports where there is no hiding your efforts,” Murtaugh said. “Some of the best leaders don’t have to say a word, and they lead by example… [Kurtz] does that in a very quiet and respectful manner.”
Kurtz started running cross country his sophomore year after joining spring track as a freshman. Throughout his time running at PV, Kurtz has many special memories, but one reigns supreme: “winning sectionals last year.”
With Kurtz being a part of back-to-back sectionals run, he credits different role models throughout his Valley running career.
“Mike Pizzella [ 2023 graduate],” Kurtz said. “He’s always there and a great leader. [He] always did great and was inspiring, a great teammate to have.”
As a three-sport athlete with cross country, winter track, and spring track, Kurtz finds time to balance his academics and athletics.
“Keep it balanced,” Kurtz said. “Nothing too crazy. Practice is usually no longer than two hours, so it’s not bad.”
Kurtz hopes to continue his running career in college.
“I’d love to run in college,” Kurtz said. “I’m just not sure yet where I’m going to go.”
