The Harwood invitational had the closest finish ever in its 28-year history. This meet is unique because both the boys’ and girls’ team scores are added together to award a co-ed champion. After the scores were added from both varsity races, South Burlington boys and girls nipped the Highlanders by a score of 70-71.
Harwood was led by the individual victory of sophomore Erin Magill in the girls’ varsity race. She was followed by Jordy Kulis in third, Phoebe Sweet (4), Lily Clark (5) and Katie Ferguson (14). “I thought Jordy and Katie ran extremely well today. We were down two weapons in our arsenal. Both Isabel Jamieson and Anneka Williams are nursing injuries and were unable to participate today. The other girls definitely made up for their absence and pulled together,” said coach John Kerrigan.
The Harwood boys were led by Noah Eckstein (3), Daniel Bevacqui (6), Kyle Dash (9), Anthony Palmerio (13), Colin Fennelly (16), Nathan Palmerio (18) and Seth Beard (24). “The South Burlington boys run as a pack, much like we do. Unfortunately their pack was slightly in front of our pack today,” Kerrigan said.
Harwood JV runners were outstanding. They were competing in the B race against varsity athletes from Division 3 schools. Hannah Clark (9), Gloria Richter (18), Anna Schmeltzer (19), Ciara Mead (22) and Victoria Morgan (23) led the Highlander JV girls. “Anna surprised everyone with her race today; she really has stepped it up,” said Kerrigan.
Harwood JV boys fared even better. They were led by Tristan Touchette (7), Cam Alberghini (11), Riley Powell (14), Jonas Merchant (15) and Brendan Magill (16). “Our JV would have placed second as a varsity team,” said Kerrigan.
Harwood next competes at the Northern Vermont Championships hosted by North Country High School on October 24.
