The definition of a state champion

FOREST, VA -- If you try to look up the word \"state champion\" in the dictionary, don\'t be surprised if you see Shannon Saunders next to the word. This word has defined Saunders\' four years of running at Jefferson Forest with her countless number of state titles as an individual and as part of the great dynasty she has helped build at Jefferson Forest.

Running was in Saunders\'s blood. \"My grandfather plus my parents are runners, so I kinda grew up around it. One of my first memories was watching my grandad run the Virginia 10-Miler.\" Along with twin sister Kristin, the two got into running at an early age. \"We used to run the 1 mile fun runs at my parents\' road races and our times weren\'t too bad.\" Their times were definitely not too bad as head cross country and track distance coach, Jerome Loy was quick to realize the two sisters had unbelievable potential. \"He just wouldn\'t take no for an answer and I for one am really thankful for that.\"

It didn\'t take long ...