The Elkmont XC team returned to competition this past Saturday at the Oakville Indian Mounds. The morning started off a little chilly but for these runners, chilly is ideal running weather!
The State XC Championship meet is different from every other race during the season in that you have to qualify to participate. The top 3 teams from each Sectional meet qualify and then the top 6 runners, not on those 3 teams, also earn a spot at the State meet. As noted in an earlier article, both our boys and girls teams qualified for State! Elkmont was very blessed this season to have 15 boys and 13 girls making up the two teams representing EHS, however rules at the State Championship only allow for a maximum of 10 athletes per team (boys/girls) to race. This meant that 8 of our athletes would not be able to participate in the race. They did remain true to their team by practicing with them and supporting them on Saturday by positioning themselves on the course to cheer on their teammates!
Toeing the line at 8:30, the 3A girls kicked off the competition for the day! There were 129 girls in the first race with runners representing 22 schools from across the State of Alabama.
The Elkmont girls team placed 13th overall in Statewide 3A competition and was led by Sammi Jo Pressnell (22:00). Adriel McMahan (23:23), Nikki Ristau (24:59), Elizabeth Sims (26:17) and Gracie McMahan (27:07) set new personal records! Jensen Pugh (23:32) and Stephanie Clem (25:02) ran their season best times. Strong performances were also delivered by the remaining ladies with times as follows: Hannah Hanback (23:24), Mia Farris (26:15) and Lena Gempke (26:30).
The highly anticipated boys race started at 9:30. There were 138 finishers with runners representing 26 schools from across the State of Alabama. The Elkmont boys team placed 6th overall in Statewide 3A competition. Competition was fierce on Saturday and it was an extremely tough field with private schools taking 4 of the top 6 places.
1. Westminister Christian
2. Cottage Hill Christian
3. Sipsey Valley
4. American Christian Academy
5. Trinity Presbyterian
6. Elkmont
The Elkmont team was led by Adam McMahan, finishing in 17:37. He was followed by Tyler Helms (18:04), Chance Bailey (18:11), Chase Prater, (PR 18:13), Tiyler Walts (19:30), Nick Shelton (PR 20:14), Jacob Ezell (20:39), Ethan Shores (20:41), Josh Ferrazas (21:07) and Chandler Johnson (23:23).
On a personal note to the Seniors: Jensen, Adam, Tyler, Nick, Josh and Chandler:
"The things you have learned through running will carry you through life. You may think I am crazy right now but believe me, you will always have challenges in front of you – but you have the intestinal fortitude, determination and drive to see you through. You know how to “dig in” and "drive it up that hill" when the pressure is on and I am sure that somewhere down the road, in the midst of a “hill”, if you STOP and “listen” – you will hear Coach Pugh or Coach Dale offering word of encouragement! You kids are great and I have enjoyed spending the season with you and your families! Although the school year isn’t over yet – I still want to wish you luck in the future!"
COACH PUGH'S CORNER:
Another XC season in the books. Great showing today by the Elkmont teams. I want to say a big Thanks! to the parents for their support and encouragement throughout the season. All of the things you do to make the meets go easy, driving your kids, setting up the tent and flags and food is much appreciated. I wants say a big thank you to Mr. Garris and the faculty at Elkmont for always encouraging my kids.
A big thanks to my wife who I could not do without during the season. Coach Dale Miller for all of his help and encouragement to the team. Brenda Hunter Morrow and the Ardmore parents for all of the support on the evening runs and at meets. But most of all I want to thank my runners! Bet you didn't know I think they are special! Ha! They are the best and make coaching a lot of fun and enjoyment and in no way a "job". We are a family. Today was the last run for some of my family. These seniors have been very special to me over the years. Jensen is one of them. I ran every mile in every race in my mind with her today. She had a personal best for the season! Watching her grow and become the athlete she is has been a great privilege. She is my sunshine and will be greatly missed next season! Looking forward to next season already! go EHS XC!
Photos of the state cross county meet are provided by Down Home Portraits. There are 178 great shots of the Elkmont and West Limestone teams. Link: EHS,West Cross Country State
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