Sat. Sept. 27 The Fred Gressler Meet, White Plains
Our First Invitational Meet
Cloudy skies and wet feet for sure, but luckily the forecast showers never appeared. Today the team had it’s first taste of a real cross country meet, complete with crowds, flags, and a slew of competitors on the starting line.
The 3.1 mile course was three slippery loops around the WPHS campus. A far cry from the dry flat course we just ran at Rye Neck. Dulce thought the hills were harder than VCP. They certainly looked steep. Our hill work must be paying off, because our times were good.
Arnold led the boys with a 12th place finish that earned him the first XC trophy for a Hamilton harrier in many a year. He was followed closely by Hashem. Joji and Allen finished in a virtual tie. I have them both with the same unofficial time. Apparently they were having a great time out there passing opponents together from both sides. Ok for learning purposes and for teamwork, but how about starting out a little faster so you don’t have to pass so many of them? Jamar who showed up unexpectedly was in next. Imagine what he could run if he showed up for more practices. Russell and Bryant rounded out the varsity. Bryant, how about tying those laces with a double knot?
Our ladies’ team was without Kristine who was out sick. Sydney was ready to step in to lead our girls. She looked great out there. Dulce followed her. She couldn’t have been having that hard of a time as she was able to run by and once again flash the “V” of victory. Kathleen as usual blazed to the finish, though she almost took a wrong turn before starting her kick.
As if the day wasn’t nice enough we even ran into an old familiar face. Much to our surprise Dr. Hendrickson was one of the spectators. Only personal victories today, the boys team finished 12th of 13 teams in the varsity race. Keio, the best in class D, out ran us today, but on the bright side we did beat Children’s Village. Now let’s keyed up for Valhalla!
