HOULTON, Maine — After competing as separate squads for the past few seasons, runners from Houlton and Greater Houlton Christian Academy have joined forces for the fall cross country season.
Since neither squad had enough runners to qualify as a team on their own, the two groups have joined forces this fall. Veteran running coach Chris Rines, who also coaches the Shire track and field team, said he was optimistic for the new season, even if it will be condensed.
“Although the season might be an abbreviated one, we’re looking forward to the opportunity to be able to compete this fall nonetheless,” Rines said. “We are very grateful that the state agencies, the MPA and the RSU 29 district have all taken the necessary steps to allow for and ensure a safe return to play protocol.”
Cross Country races typically involve large groups of runners heading onto a course at the same time. This year, depending on where the meets are being held, runners will be able to space themselves out accordingly and not be required to wear face masks while competing.
For Houlton, a change in venue will take place as the squad will host its one and only home meet at Riverfront Park.
The team returns four veteran runners in seniors Emmalyne Drake and Jeremy Stone, along with juniors Hope Royal and Daniel Ross (11th) for the boys.
Joining the veterans are six newcomers: sophomore Kenzie Hodgkins and freshmen Leanne Ross and Calli Sylvia for the girls, and sophomores Kristian Kellerhals, Xavier Sutter and JJ Bourgoin for the boys.
“With the exception of the veteran runners, only Leanne and Calli have previous cross-country experience,” coach Rines said. “Captains leading their respective squads this year will be our two seniors, Drake and Stone.”
With only a handful of meets on the schedule, it will be a very different season working with the runners, the coach added.
“Losing the first month of the season, plus having to wait another couple weeks before the first meet could be contested, has left us with a race schedule that will take some creative coaching to work around to make sure runner’s needs are met, injuries are being avoided and progress is being made,” he said.
The group will host a home meet Saturday, Oct. 10, in Riverfront Park with Caribou and Presque Isle attending. The Aroostook County championship is slated for Thursday, Oct. 15, at Caribou.
