The Country School Harriers Shine at Wickham Invitational

In their racing spikes and surrounded by the early fall hues of Manchester’s Wickham Park, The Country School boys and girls cross country teams delivered a couple of standout performances at the 41st annual Wickham Invitational. Competing against fierce New England competition, both teams demonstrated their potential as serious contenders to finish high up in the state championships just a month away. The girls team finished an impressive second in Connecticut and third overall in New England, while the boys placed fifth in Connecticut and seventh in New England. The racing takes place on the grueling 3 km course, which is known for its challenging terrain and elevation changes. Runners experience a total elevation change of approximately 190 feet. This makes it one of the more difficult courses in the region, with rolling hills and steep climbs that test endurance and strategy. With the backdrop of vibrant autumn leaves, the boys' race kicked off first among 164 competitors from 10 teams. Just over 10 minutes later, Henry L. and Tash F. flashed across the finish line, securing 12th and 19th place respectively—a remarkable achievement, especially as seventh graders. Captains Zack B. and Kieran F. followed with strong finishes, placing 30th and 45th. The future is bright for the team with three young talents in Sam G. and Arlo M., who claimed 66th and 69th place, while Micah B. completed the team’s scoring in 70th. These teammates are poised to become a force in the coming years. Next, the girls toed the starting line, ready to take on a field of 146 competitors. Leading the charge, sisters Tillie K. and Liv K. turned in stellar performances over the grass and trails, finishing first and fourth in Connecticut and second and fifth overall. Tillie's relentless pace kept her firmly in the lead until right near the end, while Liv’s determination shone through as she closed with tremendous guts over the last 800 meters to claim her top-five finish. Not far behind, Maribel S. secured 10th place, all but ensuring the team’s spot on the podium. Quinn F. and Anna G., embodying The Beach Boys' "be true to your school" spirit, closed out the scoring with finishes in 28th and 40th place, solidifying the girls' second-place finish in Connecticut. Sixth graders Emily A. and Lucy C. also had outstanding showings, crossing the line in 42nd and 45th place. Along with Liv, this talented group of sixth graders promises to be a formidable team in middle school racing for two more years to come—unless they get drafted for the Olympics first! Newcomer and seventh grader Jonah B. came in next, chased throughout the course by eighth grade captain Brynn, both showing tremendous fortitude in the challenging conditions. The Country School Harriers now look ahead to their next race, on Wednesday, where they’ll take on Adams Middle School and North Haven Middle School. With their sights set on continued improvement, these runners are ready to charge ahead toward state championship distinction.