Last week was not a very good workout week for Nick Velardi. As the returning second runner from last year's team, his ailing body struggled to keep up with the pack. Finally, two days prior to our opening race, he found himself able to run with the pack, at least for a short workout. The question was could he manage to keep strong through the whole 'Ultimook' Race. Nick bolted to his normal second position on the team and held it, placing 18th, even outkicking an Oregon State Champion. Rumor has it that if he wins this race next year, they will rename the race in his honor - the 'Nickamook' Race.
A beautiful day on the Oregon Coast calls for flowers and ... MUD! In her first XC race, Lydia enthusiastically embraced both. Coaches' optimistic pre-race expectations had Lydia for a top ten at the Future Varsity level, but Lydia went beyond that. She found herself in 2nd as the leaders slopped their way through the mud pit. Her fourth place finish with a time worthy of running varsity was the biggest surprise for the Panthers in our 2013 debut race. She also earned a bouquet of flowers as well. Lydia will surely contribute to our success sooner than expected! Her post race words: 'I have never had so much fun in my life!'