Hamilton runs at North Salem
Veterans look good, rookies impress
The Hamilton Harriers kicked off their 2016 season this Wednesday with a scrimmage against North Salem, Putnam Valley and old foes Dobbs Ferry. Because most of the team didn't have enough practices to compete officially, the day could be best described as a practice in uniform. Practice, scrimmage, time-trial, call it what you will it gave us our first look at the 2016 squad.
 |
| pre-meet focus |
Here's what we saw: Lowell and Ryan are right where they should be as our #1 and #2 runners. Both looked good as they ran the early season contest in a controlled relaxed style. Probably the most exciting sight of the day was watching some of our rookies getting their first taste of XC on a sunny, humid, hot afternoon. Running an XC 5K is never an easy task, but newcomer Brandon Machado showed he was up to it blasting a blistering finish to claim the #3 spot. Brandon was followed by returning sophomore Jeffrey Quispe, who has done nothing but make Coach Aiello smile with his performances so far this young season. Our standout freshman Chris Yeosock was close on Jeffrey's heels to grab the #5 spot. Yeosock is showing a lot of raw talent and desire; two elements that could add up to something big. Luciano and Stephen rounded out our top 7 for the day. Corey Field, in only his second day back on the squad, followed as did Jonathon Medina and Christian Torres. Our other freshmen: Savallya B., Brennan G. and Joe D., who are still getting their XC legs, were not expected to run the whole race. However, even 2 miles on the tough course left them feeling a bit more experienced.
 |
| boys' squad getting ready to roll |
Our girls' team only had 4 runners on the starting line today. Megan Mirtil made an early season statement by being the first Lady Raider to finish. Captain Naomi Imaizumi followed not far behind, and senior Jenn Vargas looked good. Rookie Binta Mbaye was only out for a 2 mile run; it will be interesting to see how she develops as the season goes on.
No doubt this team has a lot of work to do yet, but this scrimmage was a positive step forward. Our first real meet will be on Wednesday Sept. 14 against Croton. Stay tuned.
