Plainsmen cross country teams shine in season opener at North Platte
BY EMMALEE PARSLEY STEVENS
GRANT TRIBUNE SENTINEL
The Perkins County High School cross country teams kicked off their season on Wednesday, September 4, at North Platte St. Patrick’s, and they wasted no time making a statement. In their first meet of the year, the Plainsmen boys placed second overall, while the girls claimed the team championship with several top finishes.
On the boys’ side, senior Elijah Goodell set the tone for the season by bringing home the individual title. Goodell’s first-place run helped propel the team to a strong finish, with solid support from his teammates. Ethan Swesey followed with a fifth-place finish, while Logan Barry placed 12th. Cooper Kroeker crossed in 16th, and Jesus Marquez rounded out the team effort in 23rd. Together, the squad’s depth and consistency secured Perkins County the runner-up team trophy.
The Lady Plainsmen dominated the course, capturing the top team spot behind a strong mix of experienced runners and new talent. Madison Potts led the way with a first-place finish, setting the pace for her team and showing early-season form. Savannah Miller claimed fifth, Haylea McGreer finished eighth, and Brenna Colglazier earned 10th. Hannah Bishop added depth to the team’s score with a 14th-place finish, ensuring the Lady Plainsmen secured the overall victory.
Head coach Tristan Stephenson praised both teams for their efforts, noting the balance of success and learning opportunities that came with the opener.
“The cross-country teams are off and running! The girls made a splash, winning the North Platte St. Pat’s invitational with 14 points. I anticipated some talent, but these girls worked hard! I have high hopes, as many of these girls are new to the 5k distance and can certainly become more familiar with the race and what comes with it,” Stephenson said. “The boys also worked hard! There were numerous personal best times at this meet, but it was also bittersweet as some boys thought they could still do better. I was happy to hear it because they still performed well, earning runner-up as a team. This lets us start the season knowing quality has to be earned; we have to be determined and focused. Individually, Rodolfo Aragon had a huge personal record. His efforts are worth mentioning as he has been training so much and it is starting to pay off this season. Overall, this was a great meet to see where kids are at, and it prepares us well for further into the season!”
The Plainsmen will be back in action on Wednesday, September 11, when they run at the Imperial Country Club. Races are scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.