The boys and girls cross country teams dominated their races at the Crystal Springs Cross Country Course on Wednesday, placing first and third overall out of 18 teams. This was the Bears’ second PAL race of the season, marking the halfway point for league play and adding to their streak of podium-caliber performances.
The hilly, dry, and windy terrain made it difficult for runners to find their footing, but the Bears’ substantial experience helped them pull through. “M-A has been running at Crystal since the ‘70s,” junior Cason Mitchell said. “It’s also where our PAL finals and CCS races are, so it’s important to get more practice on the course before those crucial races begin.”
The boys raced first, with Mitchell comfortably beating the competition by 16 seconds with a time of 15:58, while three other Bears placed in the top five. Senior Thomas Bernadicou took third, junior Aiden Sharp took fourth, and sophomore Evan Chopra took fifth. All the Bears finished within the top 30, finishing with an outstanding 31 points. “The team did great and I feel like we could win the PAL pretty easily if the team stays healthy,” said Bernadicou. “We have a good chance of making it to States.”
The girls raced second, with freshmen Caroline Pflaum and Harper Krefetz finishing 10th and 16th, respectively. They were followed up by juniors Riya Mehta and Paige McGaraghan, who placed 19th and 20th. The Bears ended with a score of 79, barely falling to Carlmont who had a score of 75.
The successful race spurred excitement for the rest of the season. “I’m thrilled with where our team is right now and where the season is heading,” said Mitchell. “This Wednesday was a great showing of where we are, and what we are capable of. As we enter the postseason, we are only improving.”
The Bears look to continue their winning streak at the third PAL race at Bayfront Bedwell Park on Oct. 30.
