By Samantha Myers
OHS Journalist
The Oxford Cross Country teams put forth quality efforts despite running in less than ideal weather.
‘The team was introduced to the changing seasons,? said Junior Brent Womble. ‘We just have to learn to adapt.
Tuesday’s meet against Linden and Swartz Creek was originally scheduled to be in Brandon, but was changed to Swartz Creek due to hazardous course conditions. The Boys lost both meets, 25-34 to Linden and 27-30 to Swartz Creek. The girls split, beating Swartz Creek 26-31 and losing to Linden 27-30
Junior Dylan Smith was the first runner to cross the finish line for Oxford, placing fifth overall in a time of 17:27. Senior Alex Pollack came in seventh with a time of 17:42, while Freshman Ryan Gillespie finished a second behind Pollack. Junior Curtis Kocher came in 15th.
The girls were led by Freshman Brooke Kavacic, who finished nearly a minute ahead of the pack with her time of 20:08. Second place went to Wildcat Freshman Ashley Burrand with her time of 20:26. Senior Kate Wolanin’s time of 22:08 placed her 11th, with Junior Captain Megan Seeley finishing a second behind her.
The combination of big hills and pouring rain made running difficult on Saturday, Oct 3, but both teams were able to bring home third place finishes at the Waterford Mott Invite.
Waterford Mott and Birmingham Seaholm finished ahead of the girls, while Mott and Lake Orion topped the boys.
Four members of each squad were able to get inside the top 20, thus ensuring a medal.
Kovacic finished second overall with a time of 19:50. She lost to Mott runner Shannon Osika. Burr finished third with a 20:34, whle Seeley came in 15th and Wolanin 19th.
‘The race was so cold that everyone’s muscles tightened up, making it difficult to run,? said Smith. Freshman Ross Chapman slipped and fell, which cost him vauable seconds on his time.
‘The team put forth great effort and determination,? said Coach Sutherland, who was pleased with the results.
The boys are 3-4 while the girls are 5-2.