9-10-2010
The weather Friday was perfect for a cross country meet. Cooler, occasional sun, and a slight breeze. We travelled a few miles down the road from NYA to Pratt’s Brook in Yarmouth to race against Yarmouth, Waynflete, Traip, and Wells over a challenging 3.15 mi course through the woods. The course starts and finishes in an open field but otherwise the athletes are running through woods out of sight of spectators and coaches for all but the first and last minute of the race.
Heading into the course walk 2 of the 5 girls on the racing team were still unsure they would be able to race due to sore ankles and questionable terrain. In the end both girls decided it was manageable and we put a full team on the line. All 5 started strong and fast towards the front of the pack. With 3 class C teams in the meet (one of which was Waynflete – defending state champions) the race was a good chance to see where we stacked up against the competition. Thanks to gutsy performances from all 5 girls they were able to narrowly edge out a 2nd place finish behind Yarmouth but ahead of Waynflete. Although it was not our intention coming into the meet, they sent a clear message that they are ready to work and mean business.
Newly elected captain Hillary Detert led the way finishing 2nd (by one 1 second). Sarah Jordan and Maggie Meixell finished very close in 9th and 12th after some close battles to the finish line. Morgan Scully finished 4th for the team and 17 overall while Hadley Gibson rounded out the top 5 finishing in 25th. A very proud day for the Panthers.
NYA is back in action at Poland Springs in Poland next Friday the 17th.