On a crisp, fall afternoon at Independence Oaks County Park, the Brandon girls cross country team proved to be in fine form.
The Blackhawks placed three competitors in the top ten on their way to winning the Brandon Invitational Oct. 3, finishing with 39 points. Brandon easily outdistanced second-place Southfield Christian (95), third-place Stoney Creek (97) and fourth-place Harper Woods Regina (103).
Meanwhile, the Brandon boys cross country team also fared well for themselves, placing fifth out of ten teams in the meet with 145 points. Warren DeLaSalle won the meet with 40 points, while Richmond finished second (61) and Stoney Creek third (84).
Kelsey Carmean was the top finisher among the Brandon girls competitors, placing fourth overall (20:49.7). Hannah Stone of Lapeer East was first (20:36), followed by Stoney Creek’s Kelly Taylor (20:48.1) and Regina’s Gina Valgoi (20:49.7).
Brandon’s other top ten finishers were Kelly Wilson (sixth, 21:17.2) and Kayla Doan (seventh, 21:30.6). In addition, Jamie Hendershott placed just outside the top ten, finishing 11th (21:49.2).
Rounding out the Brandon varsity were Sarah Eldon (17th, 23:06.1), Hannah Scherer (22nd, 23:25.8) and Katelin Mackin (32nd, 24.43.2).
The Brandon boys were led by Trevor DeWitt, who finished 15th among all boys runners (18:41). Right behind DeWitt was Steve Sanday, placing 16th (18:44). Adam George was the only other Brandon runner to place in the top 25, finishing 22nd (18:58).
Other Brandon competitors were Jared Blunk (48th, 20:37), Blake McLellan (49th, 20:41), Andrew Fisher (61st, 21:47) and Dylan Kent (65th, 22:44).