By: Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
The Stanhope Elmore Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country team recently competed in the Class 6A Section 2 meet in Auburn, Alabama. The SEHS’ girls team finished in 2nd place overall and the boys’ team finished in 3rd place.
“The Stanhope Elmore cross- country teams proved once again that running miles for fun is not only possible, but state-qualifying worthy,” said Head Coach Bianca Bishop.
The boys’ strong performance was powered by two Mustangs who finished in the overall top 5. Junior Emanuel Peralta finished in 5th place with a time of 18:36:44, while Logan Barnes finished 1st overall with a time of 17:01:42.
“His secret? A casual 40 miles a week and just a quick 10-plus mile long run,” said Coach Bishop.
Meanwhile, the Stanhope Elmore girls’ cross country finished the Class 6A Section 2 meet in 2nd place. They had three different girls place in the Top 10 of the Sectional. Freshman Samaria Hughes finished 3rd overall with a time of 22:46:95, while sophomore Cora Barnes finished 6th overall with a time of 23:15:74 and junior Gabriella Brown finished 8th overall at 24:09:77.
“The girls’ team wasn’t about to let the guys have all the headlines,” said Coach Bishop. “They battled their way to 2nd place overall, led by Samaria Hughes, Cora Barnes, and Gabriella Brown, who all cracked the top 10 like it was just another day at practice. What makes this team more impressive? They’re not just runners. They’re golfers, JROTC leaders, swimmers, cheerleaders, gymnast, soccer players, part-time employees, and AP students who somehow manage to fit in long runs, and possibly, sleep.”
Both teams will advance to the Class 6A State Championship meet on November 8 in Danville, Alabama.
