Members of boys cross country compete at prestigious NikeNationals

Members of the Auburn High School boys cross country team running as the Auburn Pulsars competed Saturday, Dec. 2 at the prestigious Nike CrossNationals at the Glendoveer Golf Course in Portland, Oregon.

Auburn ran against 22 seven-person clubs and an additional 50 individuals from eight regions across the country. All of their travel expenses were paid by Nike. Auburn finished the regular season third at the state Class A meet and running as the Pulsars, qualified for the NikeNationals with a high finish at the New York race.

“Going to the Nike Nationals was one of the goals of the team at the beginning of the season,” said coach Greg Stowell. “Especially toward the end of the season it was in reach, but was going to be a difficult task. Once they qualified for Nationals at the regional meet it seemed so rewarding for all of the work that they had done during the summer and fall months.” 

Amongst teams, Auburn finished 22nd, led by sophomore Ryan Maher who completed the 5K race in 99th place in a time of 16:22.4. Other Auburn runners who competed were junior Ryan Ferrin finished in 142nd in 16:42.4, sophomore Owen Gasper who was 150th in 16:50.3, senior Chris Howard who was 175th in 17:14, senior Keegan Brady who was 182nd in 17:23.8 and freshman Sean Ringwood who was 200th in 18:44.3.

“The trip itself to me and the kids was inspiring,” Stowell said. “The kids were able to talk to and compete against the other top programs in the country. In addition, The athletes were able to meet several Olympians and other professional runners over the weekend. For the younger members of the team it is motivation to go back next year. I was so happy for the kids because I know all of them sacrifice a lot of their time and energy to pursue their athletic goals.”