Four cross country runners medal for California at Helias Invitational

The California varsity cross country team competed at the Helias Invitational Saturday where four runners medaled.

"Donald Figgins, Nathan Thibon, who had a big 40 second 'pr,' and Elizabeth Kirby and Ashlee Davis medaled for California," Coach Josh Grotzinger said. "Both Elizabeth and Ashlee had big personal bests; Lizzy by about 40 seconds and Ashlee by 30 seconds. The biggest 'pr' of the meet by far was rookie Devon Harms, who improved by over a minute, going from 25:28 to 24:15. He's improved by 2 1/2 minutes from the beginning of the season. He was a huge help as we've lost our fifth man from the previous meets due to injuries."

Grotzinger added, "We're getting close to the end of the season and trying to find seconds and places wherever we can. The kids have been working hard with morning practice at 6:30 every day but Tuesday, and afternoon practice every day as well. It's really exciting to watch kids like Devon and Ashlee keep improving every meet and wondering where the limits are, but they keep showing up and working hard every day and keep getting better."

Grotzinger said the CHS cross country team is looking for big things this year if they can put it together at districts.

The last meet of the regular season is the Fatima Invitational Oct. 23 at Westphalia.

"We're looking to run some fast times and break some barriers," Grotzinger said. "Nathan Thibon, Devon Huff and Dakota Harris have been flirting with the 20-minute barrier all season and it would be great to see them all get under that."

The Class 2 District 7 Cross Country Meet will be held at Tiger Jack's Golf Course, Holden, Oct. 30.