By Allie Paulzine, Student Reporter This past Tuesday, October 8th, the Adrian Golf Course buzzed with energy as runners from Abiding Savior Academy, Adrian/ Ellsworth, HL-O, JCC, Luverne, MCC/F, Pipestone Area, RTR, SW MN Christian- Edgerton, Sioux Falls Lincoln, and TMB/ WWG met for the last regular season cross country meet. With teams from across Southwestern MN and Eastern South Dakota vying for accolades, the atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation of fierce competition. As the athletes toed the starting line on that crisp autumn day, it was clear that this would be an unforgettable afternoon of thrilling performances and multiple personal bests as the Warriors were gearing up for the conference next week and sections the following week.
The girls’ 1,600m junior high race kicked off the meet on a day filled with excitement and competition. Tessa Alquist represented the girls MCC/F Warriors junior high, showcasing her determination and finishing 16th at 8:23. The junior high boys team delivered an outstanding performance, clinching first place with a total of 33 points. Micah Janssen led the charge, finishing strong in 3rd place with a time of 5:57. Following him were Garret Reith in 9th place at 6:22 and Connor Pieske at 11th with a time of 6:34. Other notable finishes included Carter Larson (13th, 6:48), Carson Sykora (15th, 7:00), and Bobby Keller (26th, 8:08). Their collective effort not only secured the win but also demonstrated the depth of talent within the junior high runners.
The girls varsity team faced tough competition but managed to secure 5th place, with a score of 122 points. Sioux Falls Lincoln dominated the race, finishing first with a remarkable 24 points. Sophia Nelson stood out for our team, finishing in 6th place with a time of 21:43. Mara Clarke followed closely in 12th place at 22:25. Other runners included Laiken Farris (32nd, 24:54), Ruth Ethridge (49th, 26:06), and Isabela Schreier (63rd, 28:22). Despite the challenges, the girls demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the race.
In the boys varsity race, Luverne’s Owen Janeseski took the victory with a time of 17:08, followed closely by his teammate Dylan Ommen in second place at 17:31. Our team showcased strong individual performances, led by Mathew Stapek, who finished 6th with a time of 17:49. Evan Bumgardner also made a mark, securing 11th place with a time of 18:13. Other notable finishes included Alexander Betz (17th, 18:36), Aiden Appel (24th, 19:08), Caleb Appel (25th, 19:13), and Beckett Stelter (29th, 20:32). The team’s depth was evident with additional finishes from Alex Kueny (30th, 20:39), Tyler Reith (31st, 20:43), Wesley Hause (40th, 21:02), Zach Kirchner (42nd, 21:14), Carter Knakmuhs (65th, 23:27), Walker Biren (69th, 23:58), and William Biren (92nd, 31:16).
Overall, it was a day filled with grit and perseverance, showcasing the dedication of our athletes. The junior high boys team’s victory sets a promising tone for the rest season, while the varsity teams continue to strive for improvement and excellence. With conference next week, all eyes will be on our runners as they work towards their goals, fueled by the support of their coaches and fans.
The Warriors will compete at the Red Rock Conference Meet in Adrian next Monday, October 14th. Go, Warriors!!
