CHS harriers bow out at semi state

The young Cougars found out that running at semi state is a lot different than any other meet they have ever run, finishing in 20th place. The girls team and Kyle Wallace discovered that the biggest schools in Indiana can throw an elbow or two or three at you when you are in the woods and that is just part of racing.

"The girls ran slightly better than their season averages but it takes a lot more than that to compete with the likes of Valparaiso, Chesterton, Lake Central, Portage and Penn High Schools, commented Coach Mike Miller. "We had a learning

experience. This was what I hope to be the start of a Semi State tradition. But not just qualifying for it, advancing to State is what we want to set our goals for. We are already planning on what to do for next season."

This was Kyle Wallace's (senior) first trip to semi state. Wallace also found the competition tough. Going through at the mile, he was in trouble. His time was ok but he was in 60th place.

"There are too many fine runners to make up the gap in order to move on to state. You have to be the top 15 individuals to advance. I just didn't get the job done", said a dejected Wallace.

Coach Miller was quick to add, "I am very proud to be associated with this group of athletes. I am looking forward to next season already. I always miss my seniors and wish them the best."

Cross country is a one class only state tournament.

The top ten teams at semi state were: 1. Valparaiso 67; 2. West Lafayette 110; 3. Lake Central 111; 4. Portage 138; 5. Culver Academies 181; 6. New Prairie 185; 7. Chesterton 202; 8. Penn 208; 9. Rensselaer 250; 10. Lafayette Harrison 260. The top five teams advance to state.