Cardinal’s young cross country team, which includes just two returning runners from last season, gained some much needed confidence after competing at the Grand Valley Invitational on Tuesday.
The Huskies have a quick turnaround as they’ll host the Cardinal Invitational on Saturday.
“Our young runners are still learning how to race,” said Cardinal coach Megan Cameron. “Every meet is a building block for the next. We’re looking forward to our home meet this Saturday, hopefully posting some faster times.”
Joey Bradesca led the Huskies with a finish of 22:12 in the boys’ race. Clayton Sauberan clocked a time of 27:49 and Austin Barcikoski also competed for the Huskies.
“The race today didn't go completely as expected, but overall I was satisfied because there were challenges to overcome such as the heat and the difficult course,” Bradesca said. “I feel that I am improving pretty well as the season moves on. Today was a little setback, but I am hoping that this Saturday I can come out strong and give it what I got.”
Allissa Nevison paced the Cardinal girls with a time of 26:04.
“The race was difficult for a few reasons,” Nevison said. “One, I have been sick for the past few days and that really did show in my time. This was my slowest race since sophomore year and also the course is very slow and proves to be a more difficult meet. The heat obviously creates its own challenges but you really just have to push yourself. Everyone did well today and really overcame the heat very well.”
Nevison and the Huskies face an extra challenge on the course.
“Running is a very mental sport,” she said. “It's very hard not having a full team. We all have to compete for individual goals because we can't place as a team. Trying to use each other for motivation is key. We all have to work together to succeed. We are still early in the season and I can't wait to see where the rest of the season goes.”
Autumn Zak finished in 27:08, Jenna Ayer ran the race in 29:09 and Shelby Miller came in at 35:04.
