The girls cross country team ran a successful 5k race at their meet on Sept. 16. The meet was disturbed by a bit of rain, but that didn’t stop the girls from running their best. It also didn’t stop family, friends and coaches from cheering on the runners all the way to the finish line.

Coach O’Hara was really proud of all the girls for giving it their all, describing the perseverance they showed despite the dismal conditions and challenging course. “The raining condition and the extremely hilly second mile added to the challenge of the race.”

The meet’s final score had AHS in third place with 61 points, following West Springfield at 45 and T.C Williams at 31.

Coach Phil Harris was satisfied with the progress of his team. “I am pleased with their performance at the meet. Connie [Tran] turned an outstanding performance and Sabrina [Romano] is running exceptionally well. The team is finally coming together.”

The team also competed in the Monroe Parker Invitational on Sept. 11.

Senior Natalie Johnson, one of the varsity team’s key runners, was pleased with her team’s performance. “Victoria [Ko], Sabrina [Romano], and I started off the year at a good pace at invitationals. Our times were really good, but there is still room for improvement.”

The varsity girls were all excited to start their new season, including senior Tori Clodfelter, who described her goals for the season. “My hopes for the season are to get my times down and to finally finish my fourth year of cross country.”

Senior Carrie Vergel de Dios had a similar point of view. “My goals for the season are for my team to do well collectively and place at one of the meets.”

Overall, the girls are looking forward to a successful season and expect another year of strong performances from both the varsity and JV runners.