Mud Runners is an introductory short story of a small town cross country team seeking to make the transition from best in class to best in nation. A team, rich in tradition in cross country and track, has a another shot at the state title. This time, as underdogs, the Beaver River Beavers have a chance to upset the number one ranked Trojans and their lead runner is expected to contend for the individual state championship. A would be first in school history. At the state championship, the team must overcome the competition amidst a course devastated by flooding. In the years that would follow, with the highest expectations and no shortage of talent, the team would face obstacles that shook their naivety. It would become clear that nothing was a given; there were no handouts. Dedication, sheer will, and perseverance would need to prevail to summit their mountains.