As the calendar flipped to October, Brunswick cross country hosted the FAA schools for a home meet blessed by near perfect weather and course conditions, ultimately sweeping the competition on the way to victory on Wednesday.
The results were evident in the race times of the 200-plus runners, most showing measurable improvement since the beginning of the season.
A negative split on the second mile released Nathan Lee and Teddy Hojlo from the small group, which had stayed near them through the opening mile. Impressing the home crowd and visitors alike, the teammates worked together the rest of the way, finishing well in front of the competition in times of 16:14 and 16:16, respectively.
Armaan Lakhani showcased his healthy form and sprinter speed as he made a late challenge for third place overall, coming up just steps short against the top Hopkins runner, yet dramatically improving his personal best to 16:54 in the process.
Arjun Kolluri continues to display the significant effects of his model commitment to the process, once again improving his own personal best to 17:09, battling familiar foes to seventh place overall with a determination that confirms he finds more than a little extra motivation in a rivalry.
Shaurya Gupta can no longer be considered a novice, though his ascendancy in this sport continues to surprise and delight. The eighth grader improved to 17:27, finishing in ninth place, and while “potential” can be a dangerous label, his increasing confidence is producing shock and awe on the rest of the field.
Ollie Hegeman has only recently accepted the challenge that is cross country, but four races under his belt already suggests he has undergone baptism by fire. The team has been searching for those with the wherewithal to join, and his early result of 20:47 is indication he has what it takes.
Finally, a time of 22:53 for captain Alex Mastellone means the “muscles who hustles” has begun his return to last season’s form, and the Bruins should expect him to be climbing the leaderboard in the weeks ahead.
The team’s league record is 14-0 and 17-1 overall.
Team Scores:
- Wick 20-35 GCDS
- Wick 18-37 Hopkins
- Wick 16-39 Masters
- Wick 15-40 RCDS
- Wick 15-41 GFA
- Wick 15- 44 St Luke’s
- Wick 15-48 King