The cross country season has officially begun at Benet Academy. Both the girls and boys team have been training very hard, with practices after school every single day. Although both teams have worked tirelessly, there have been some difficulties for them due to the heat, especially with the large heat wave on the week of August 21st. The girls team had their first meet canceled and the boys had challenges with the weather. Both teams were confined inside on the treadmills and cardio machines for a few days which was not ideal. They pulled through and were able to receive great training throughout the week leading up to their first meets.
The boys and the girls teams had their first meets on September 2nd. The girls team ran in Geneva, one of the hardest courses of the year. The Benet girls unfortunately were unable to place as a team in any of the races, but 3 individuals placed in the top 15: Delilah Helenhouse, Kiera Jenke, and Lili Pervan. Even though the results were not the most favorable as a team, the Benet Academy girls cross country team learned a lot and were ready for their next race on September 9th. The Benet Academy boys cross country team started their season off with The Hinsdale Central Red Devil Invitational. There they competed against some of the top teams in the highest division (3A). Finn Richards, Aiden Hullett, and Quinn Knox placed high in their races.
On September 9th, the boys and girls cross country teams raced at The Steelmen Invite in Channahon, Illinois. Both teams had fantastic races that resulted in podium finishes for both teams. The Benet Academy girls placed 2nd in their Varsity race and the Benet Academy boys placed 1st in their Varsity race. Overall the boys and girls teams have started their seasons strong with great performances throughout. The girl’s cross country team coach, Katie Paski reflects on the beginning of the season saying: “With the cross country season well underway, we have seen a great deal of success in both practice and competition across all levels. Each and every athlete has consistently put forth her best efforts daily in order to achieve both individual and collective team goals. After a strong showing in our first two meets, we look forward to what the rest of the season has in store for us, and we are confident that this year’s team will continue to do great things.” Benet Academy should look forward to great successes with both the boys and girls cross country teams this year.