Clark Tops the Podium; Young Owls Show Promise in Season Opener
MADISON, CT. — With their 8th Grade teammates away on overnight camping trips, two young flocks of Country School Owls took flight, racing at both the Bauer Park Tri-Meet and the Taft School Rhino Run on Wednesday.
At Bauer Park, with the spotlight squarely focused on younger runners who were acclimating to the 2-mile course length, it was two 7th graders emerging in a valiant battle with runners from neighboring Walsh and Polson schools who stole the show.
The girls raced first, and Lucy Clark led the way in dramatic fashion from the gun. A slight mishap around the mile mark, however, saw Lucy take a wrong turn and fall into 7th place as the leaders entered the second loop. Nevertheless, Lucy was undeterred as she stormed to the lead with 150m remaining, winning her first-ever cross country race in 15:02, a tremendous milestone. She was joined a minute later by teammate Emily Antman (7th), who powered through to finish in 16:09 and looked strong throughout the race, running in the top 3 for the first half. Just behind, 5th Grader Emerson Freeman (9th) battled steadily to a 16:41 finish, showing toughness (and smiles!) over the hills.
The TCS pack was rounded out by Stephanie DeLucca (29th), who ran with courage and consistency to cross in 20:33. With the 8th graders away, these four runners represented TCS with enthusiasm and resolve, finishing together in a race filled with seasoned competitors.
The boys lined up next and put together a deep and determined team performance. Harper Merrill was our top finisher (20th), running a smooth 14:09 and staying competitive throughout. He was followed closely by Bradley Kopeikin (22nd), who came across in 14:15, and Luke Ouellet (29th), right behind in 15:12, each pacing well against tough fields from Polson and Walsh.
Further back, Clark Pennington finished 40th (16:11), while Jack D’Orlando (16:35) and Sam Gagliardi (16:36) worked together over the middle miles before kicking strongly into the finish chute to snag spots 43 and 44. Ben Gelo (17:57) and Micah Benton (19:31) both ran gritty races, finding strength in the back half of the course as they clawed their way through the final sun-baked hill. Rounding out the TCS crew was Arlo (24:55), who dug deep in the final ascent, outleaning a Walsh competitor at the line by 45/100 of a second. Each of our boys ran hard and gave their best effort against some great competition.
The coaches were most impressed by the way our Owls encouraged one another, cheered at the finish line, and raced with grit despite the absence of our 8th graders. With more races ahead, this meet gave us a glimpse of the depth and promise within the team. We’re excited to see how the season continues to unfold as everyone builds on this strong start.
Go Owls!
341 Opening Hill Road, Madison, CT 06443
P. 203-421-3113 | Health Office F. 860-469-2550
P. 203-421-3113 | Health Office F. 860-469-2550
Founded in 1955, The Country School is a coeducational, independent school serving students in PreSchool-Grade 8. The Country School is committed to active, hands-on learning and a vigorous curriculum that engages the whole child.
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