Cross Country Update

Maliya Ellis '19
 
This past Tuesday, though most other teams were practicing inside due to the torrential downpour, the Cross Country Team went for a 4-mile run in the woods. The team braved the slippery rocks and knee-deep puddles with minimal complaints, and even came to enjoy the run as a unique bonding experience.

The team’s positive attitude on such a rainy run is a testament to its dedication and determination, determination that has already produced success even so early in the season. With 3 races behind them, the Cross Country Team is off to a speedy start. Veterans and newcomers alike have stepped up and raced their best, and the results have reflected that effort.

On September 15th, the team raced at the Wilton Invitational, a meet that attracts both public and private schools outside of the normal FAA league. It was hot and sunny, but the team still ran very well. Girls’ Varsity placed 3rd in the small school division, while Boys’ Varsity placed 2nd: it was a promising start to the season.

Coming off of this victory, last Saturday, the team traveled to the Canterbury Invitational, a competitive meet known for its very hilly course. A combination of strong competition, experience with running hills, and ideal weather led to fast times across the board. Notably, Charles Mason ‘19 and David Judd ‘20 shaved 40 seconds each off their fastest times ever. On the girls’ side, Hopkins’ top 4 runners all ran under 22 minutes for the 5-kilometer race, an impressive feat. As a team, Girls’ Varsity placed 3rd, while the Boys’ Varsity placed 4th, even though core Varsity runner Connor Hartigan ‘19 was sidelined with an injury.

This past Wednesday marked the team’s first FAA meet, held at Sherwood Island State Park. Due to recent rainfall, runners had to dodge puddles and muddy earth during the 5k race. Heat, humidity, and course conditions made for a challenging time, but the team still put together impressive performances. Both the girls and the boys won their race, beating rival teams Sacred Heart and Brunswick, last year’s FAA champions.

As of now, both teams are undefeated in the FAA league. The team will continue working hard in practice, and will hopefully continue their success into next week’s FAA meet and beyond.
 
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Hopkins is a private middle school and high school for grades 7-12. Located on a campus overlooking New Haven, CT, the School takes pride in its intellectually curious students as well as its dedicated faculty and staff.