Runners compete in state meet

The Wahkiakum Mule and Naselle Comet boys cross country teams competed in the Class 1B/2B state meet last Saturday at Sun Willows Golf Course, Pasco.

The Mules finished in 11th place with 276 points, and the Comets were 15th with 329 points. Northwest Christian of Lacey finished first, and North Beach tied with Wahkiakum for 11th.

"The Mules had a strong finish to their season," Coach Mike Riley said. "This is the best placing for the boys team we've had as a team at state. Our previous best was 13th in 2003.

"It's a nice way for us to end the season getting our boys team to state. We're losing four seniors boys and two girls to graduation, but we should have everyone else back next season."

For the Mules, junior Bradlee Pugh finished 37th in 18:16. Other Mule placings were 57. Connar Riley 18:48; 64. Kevin O'Connor 19:00; 70. Collan Riley 19:08; 121. Stuart Bosch 21:28 and 123. Riley Prestegard 21:52 and 124. Ben Miles 22:09.

Mule seniors are O'Connor, Prestegard, Jake Goldsmith, and Stuart Bosch, and for the girls, Jessica Asmuth and Amanda Collier.

Nathan Reitz led the Comets with a 27th place finish in 18:08. Other Comet placings were 79. Drew Macy 19:23; 99. Alex Bennett 19:59; 101. Ollie Baker 21:11; 102. Connor Smith 20:13; 103. Cramer Smith 20:15 and 128. Alex Bighill 25:05.

Bennett and Connor Smith were the Comet boys' senior runners.