Badger Cross-Country 3rd and 7th at Sandpoint Invite

The fog cleared from the park in time for the William Johnson Sandpoint Invitational at Riley Creek Park in Laclede on Saturday, Oct. 8.

The flat, fast course makes numerous turns through the campground and around the park.

"It favors the speedster who knows how to use race features. Our teams ran well," said coach Paul Bonnell.

The varsity girls placed seventh out of nine teams, not far behind District I rivals Priest River.

“Lily York ran a smart race, moving forward throughout the race and passing three people right at the end," said volunteer assistant coach Mike Tymrak.

“Indeed, it was a race for kick finishes, particularly Nonnie Stofiel and Aimee Sayers. Mid-race, Katy Hiatt, Katrine Svec, and Jordan Merz made several strategic moves to pass, securing points for the team.

 "I'm pleased to see the girls pulling together as we approach Districts,” Bonnell said.

The varsity boys placed third, missing the runner-up spot, which went to Lake City, by only three points.

Jacob Callister led the Badgers with a blistering 16:17 time and a third place overall. Micah Krmpotich, who has been battling a cold, still placed ninth with 17:05. It was the strengthening Badger pack, with outstanding races by Bradley Thompson, Jacob Perkins, and Luke Reoch that helped drop the points for the team. Tyson Boorman and Alec Perkins also had strong races in varsity.

"Tuesday's speed workout really helped with my kick," said Boorman. 

“Indeed, as the Badgers plan for districts and state, they know that the difference between earning trophies and not may come down to passing one person,” said Bonnell.

"These guys are racing with a plan. They're exhibiting serious mid-race commitment."

In the junior varsity races, Josh Dufrene, Alexander DiMarco, Orion Levine, and Tucker Cavender competed for the boys, while Elise Couplet and Marie Chary raced in the girls race. Several Badgers were out with various injuries and illness.

"A couple of our guys were racing for the first time. Tucker 'Cav,' raced with a Lakeland competitor all the way to the finish,” Bonnell said. “They were encouraging each other. That's the beauty of cross.”

“Indeed, Saturday's race showed the nature of embracing challenge,” said Couplet. "That was hard," and Chary, "I didn't think I could do it, but I did. It was my best race so far."