PIONEER, June 28, 2014- The North Central Cross Country Team, along with head Coach Brady Ruffer and Jr. High Head Coach Jared Stewart, organized and conducted their first annual 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run and 2 Mile Fun Walk on June 28. On a slightly overcast and warm morning, participants assembled at the Pioneer Community Center, and with a shower of silly string at 8 a.m., the run was underway.
According to Coach Ruffer, the members of the Eagles Cross Country Team got together and coordinated the event, gathering sponsors and publicizing the event. “We wanted to establish the 5 K Run and incorporate other events that all members of the community could participate in, and from the looks of the turnout this morning, the kids did a terrific job.”
In the 1 Mile Fun Run, North Central’s Evan Traxler and Koleman Faler broke the finish line together, with Traxler capturing 1st place. Also notable in the 1 mile run, 2 year old Jaelyn Houk broke out hard from the starting line and completed the run in great shape! Also competing, North Central’s Cassidy Faler made a hard push for the finish line, but was not quite satisfied with her performance. When asked how she felt after the run, Cassidy replied “I’m pretty disappointed I got beat by a boy!”
In the 5 K event, North Central Sophomore Trent Sakos blasted across the finish line well ahead of the nearest runner to claim the inaugural overall title. With the number of age categories recognized, all runners received some recognition for their support and effort.
Proceeds from The Eagle Run will go to the Cross Country Team to support runners attending Summer camps and other team events. The Village Reporter will have additional information in our upcoming editions on more events hosted by North Central Athletics.