Leland sophomore Sophia Grinage took over the girls race at the Hail Mary Invite at Veronica Valley Park in Lake Leelanau and won with a time of 19:23.
Grinage made quick work of the race as the sophomore, who is a contender at the Div. 4 level, is preparing for regionals and beyond.
“I definitely want to cut my time down a little bit. I think that I can run a way better time on the Benzie Central course (regionals). We are focused on improving,” Grinage said.
The sophomore was followed by Leland junior Natalie Burpee; Hana Nishi (Interlochen Arts Academy); Claire Couturier (LLSM); Ellen Schwaiger (Leland); Marie Hobbins (LLSM); Bridget Kohler (LLSM).
Lake Leelanau won the boys duel race against Leland as Eagle junior Daniel Chaney earned the win with a time of 17:11.
Chaney has been embracing the challenge over the season, especially at Hesperia over a week ago on a very hilly course.
“It was a good change to run some hills there ... against some of the best people in the region,” Chaney said. “I’m making sure I rest enough before races ... I got to be ready if I want to compete in this region.”
The northern Michigan Div. 4 regional is one of the most competitive in the state, regardless of division.
Chaney’s nickname is “Robot” due to his exceptional work ethic and commitment to the Eagles’ cross country team.
Some of Chaney’s goals this season are to reach the podium at regionals and, hopefully, compete for a top-10 finish at the state race.
Lake Leelanau St. Mary coach Nick Papes and Chaney recall a conversation from last season in which Chaney decided to take the reins.
“But he did it, and with his own recipe. We found out this was why he’s a robot. He’s kind of like (Captain Ivan) Drago from Rocky IV (regarding his work ethic),” Papes said.
Runners will head to the Cadillac Invitational for one of the fastest meets of the regular season.
Top-10: 2. Garrick Collins (LLSM); Carter Suttman (Leland); Hannes Graebel (Leland); Cody Couturier (LLSM); Mason Jager (TC CHRISTIAN); Campbell Fedderman (Leland); Holden Premeta (Leland); Brody Naeyart (Forest Area); Daniel Collins (TC Christian).
