By Allie Paulzine, Student Reporter The 2024 Section 3A Cross Country Tournament held in Luverne, MN, showcased impressive performances from the Murray County Central/ Fulda Warriors as they aimed for state qualification. The meet served as a fierce battleground, with several standout runners making their mark.
In the boys’ varsity race, Redwood Valley dominated, claiming the top two spots. William Ahrends secured first place, followed closely by Kilen Cilek in second. MCC/F Warriors’ Evan Bumgardner finished strong in fifth place with a time of 16:44, earning him a ticket to the state meet. Mathew Stapek also qualified, placing 11th with a time of 17:02. Other notable finishes for the Warriors included Alex Betz in 17th (17:19), Aiden Appel in 36th (18:25), Caleb Appel in 43rd (18:54), Beckett Stelter in 47th (19:09), and Tyler Reith in 59th (19:45). The Redwood Valley team won the meet with 34 points, while Luverne took second with 47 points, both qualifying for the state tournament. The Warriors finished third with 113 points.
On the girls’ side, eighthgrader Mara Clarke led the Warriors, finishing 9th in 20:03, which secured her a spot at the state meet. Clarke has had a remarkable season this year as only an eighth grader. Senior Sophia Nelson followed in 19th (20:50), with Laiken Farris finishing 33rd in 22:06, Holland Vogel in 67th (23:50), Isabela Schreier in 84th (24:23). Ruth Ethridge rounded out the Warrior girls in 88th (24:37). The Redwood Valley girls’ team also took first, finishing with 37 points, while Canby/Minneota claimed second with 72 points. The Warriors finished 7th with 195 points.
The state meet will take place on Saturday, November 2nd, at the Lee Bolstadt Golf Course, where Bumgardner, Stapek, and Clarke will represent the MCC/F Warriors. Their performances at sections have set the stage for an exciting challenge ahead as they strive for excellence on the state level.
Go Warriors!!
