Titans competes at Rapid City Invite

A group of Titan cross country members made a trip across the State to preview the State Cross Country Meet course this past Thursday, Sept. 24 at the Rapid City Cross Country Invite. 270 athletes from over 30 schools competed in the Varsity races. 

The Varsity girls race was the first of the day. Junior Grace  Bialas led the Titans, earning 27th place (20:24.3) with sophomore Taylor Boehnke close behind in 30th place (new PR—20:38.2). Sophomore Gretchen Curtis also recorded a new personal best time (21:09.8) to claim 46th place. Junior Logan Castle used a strong start to finish in 66th place (21:46.8). Junior Abby Hilleson earned 87th place (22:17.4) with sophomore Grace Chapman close behind in 93rd place (new PR—22:36.5). Freshman Evelyn DeGeest rounded out the Titan effort, earning 98th place (22:41.2). The Titans finished 9th in the team competition. 

The Varsity boys were the next race of the morning. Senior Reid Hammerquist continued to lead the Titans, earning 30th place (17:09.7). Sophomore Reece Christian posted a season best time (17:42.7) for 50th place, followed by senior Tate VanLaecken in 58th place (SB—17:55.8). Senior Kaden Christian grabbed 64th place (18:05.2), with sophomore Grant Curtis close behind in 71st place (18:24.2). Senior Jonah Klemisch grabbed 81st place (18:44.3). The Titan Boys finished 11th in the team scoring. 

The Titans will compete at Lennox this Friday, Oct. 2 at the Lenkota Golf Course. Varsity girls are slated to begin the day’s action at 10 a.m. followed by the varsity boys, Junior Varsity girls, Junior Varsity boys, and middle school combined. 

The cross country team will compete in the ESD Conference Meet on Oct. 10 in Pierre.