What's Happening?
The Menlo-Atherton (M-A) High School boys and girls cross country teams delivered impressive performances at the Peninsula Athletic League (PAL) Championship held at Crystal Springs Cross Country Course. The boys' team achieved a historic victory by winning
the championship with a perfect score for the fourth consecutive year. The girls' team also performed admirably, securing second place overall, narrowly missing the top spot to their rivals, the Carlmont Scots. The boys' team placed runners in the first five positions, with Cason Mitchell leading the pack with a time of 15:26.2, marking the third-fastest time in M-A history. The girls' team was led by sophomore Caroline Pflaum, who finished first with a time of 17:59.4, also the third-fastest in school history. Both teams will advance to the Central Coast Section (CCS) competition on November 15.
Why It's Important?
The success of the M-A cross country teams at the PAL Championship highlights the strength and depth of the school's athletic program. The boys' team's perfect score and the girls' strong performance underscore their competitive edge and dedication to training, particularly on challenging courses like Crystal Springs. This achievement not only boosts the morale of the athletes but also enhances the school's reputation in high school athletics. The advancement to the CCS competition provides the teams with an opportunity to further showcase their talents and potentially qualify for the state meet, which could attract attention from college scouts and increase opportunities for the athletes.
What's Next?
Both the boys' and girls' teams are set to compete in the CCS competition on November 15 at Crystal Springs Cross Country Course. The boys' race will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the girls' race at 10:30 a.m. The teams are focused on maintaining their momentum and improving their performances to secure a spot in the state meet. The athletes and coaches are likely to continue their rigorous training regimen, emphasizing strategic pacing and endurance to tackle the hilly course effectively. Success at the CCS could lead to increased recognition and support for the M-A cross country program.
