Ram runners test regional course

The Maricopa High School cross country teams had an opportunity to compete on the same course that will host the regional championship, when they ran in the Marana Invitational on Saturday.

Every member of the girls’ team set a personal record as the squad took ninth place in the 16-team event at Marana High School.

“The course will be the regional sectional course that will take place on Oct. 30th,” Ronnie Buchanan, girls coach said. “So it was a bonus to come down and have the girls and boys run it before they head back in a few weeks.

Jessica Beach once again led the girls with a 21st place finish in 21:18, while sister Beth was 27th with a 21:45 clocking.

Several of the boys were recovering from recent illness and did not run to their usual standards. Chris Lessard led through the first mile, but then faded to 13th in 17:10.

Matt Taylor, who has been picking up the pace lately, finished 18th with a time of 17:28.

As a team, the boys took seventh place among 23 squads and were fifth in Division II.

The two teams compete at the Doug Conely Meet Saturday at Tempe High School.

Girls Individuals:
21. Jessica Beach 21:18
27. Beth Beach 21:45
       Andrea Ibarrra 23:12
       Rachel Beach 23:59
       Laura Hernandez 24:00
       Shiori Ito – low 26 minutes

Boys Individuals:
13. Chris Lessard 17:10
18. Matt Taylor 17:28
36. Gibran Aguilar 18:09