SEASON END
The Flathead Cross Country had a good end to the season at the State meet in Great Falls. The girls took 4th place, by only 26 points to Helena. They had a great team race, with Tori Noland Gillespie securing All-State in 15th place, with her fastest time of the season. Close behind was Kya Wood, who raced a PR and had the best competition of her career, followed one second behind by Neila Lyngholm. Neila killed her first State race as a freshmen, and was the second fastest freshmen in the state. Sierra Vickrey was next up in the line, and also was aggressive in her competition, similarly running the best race of her career and to a PR. Hannah Perrin was right off of Sierra's heels and had a strong start and finish. Madelaine Jellison also braved her first state meet, and was the 5th fastest freshmen. Like Hannah, she had a dynamic start to the race and rounded it out well with a kick to the finish. Carlin Manning, our only senior girl, in her first year of cross country, was one second from a PR and placed 53rd. She raced gritty and incredibly coach-able, and executed many surges and tactical moves through the entire race.
The boys team had their best race as a team this season, pushing each other on many different levels. While they didn't place high as a team, if you look at their depth, and young ages, we are incredibly proud of their entry into this level of competition. Their average time was 18:07, and they were strongly led by Gabe Felton in a 17:28. Gabe battled the elements and competition the best he could, and without a doubt he left everything on the course. Bohdi Hollman, our Senior leader, had a great personal race in a 17:51 and battled through continual pain as he has every preceding race. Seth Trumm and Kyle Miller pushed each other the entire race, finish in an 18:13 and 18:14. This was a huge PR for Kyle, and well deserved at the state meet. Caden Hughes, Grant Gauthier and Kesler Hughes rounded out the squad in the less desirable conditions; 4 inches of snow and wind gusts. All are sophomores and their exposure to the state level competition will set them up for deeper success next year.
Our alternates Bailey Wride, Peyton Walker, Nora Iams, Peter Wilson and Robert Glennon offered support and cheer for the entire weekend. We thank them for their diligence, as it is hard to watch competition and not compete yourself.
Times are available at Athletic.net:
https://www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/164628/results
The state meet and its weather are a testament to the season: GRITTY and TENACITY. We have had an incredible season with a huge roster and growing culture of not only athletes, but parents that support us every step of the way. We will celebrate our village next Monday the 4th, at 5:30 pm in the Flathead High School flex space. Thanks for a great season!
