Running on a what coach Kelly Bracetty called a ‘physically challenging course’ in less than ideal conditions at Whitehall Parkway, the Emmaus girls cross country team continued their early-season success on Tuesday afternoon as the Hornets picked up three more wins, including knocking off preseason favorite Stroudsburg 19-40.
“These girls could have used every reason in the book to run slow today,” said Bracetty, the Hornets first-year coach. “They had rain, hills, mud, cold temps, but instead they turned those negative, uncontrollable circumstances into positives situations, which truly shows just how much stronger they’re getting not only physically but mentally, too. “
“I wanted to see them use this meet and these conditions as a team bonding opportunity and they did exactly that. I’m more and more proud of them each race!”
With the win over the Mounties along with sweeping both East Stroudsburg South and North 15-50, the Hornets remained unbeaten on the season in improving to 9-0.
The Hornets dominated the race with seven of its runners finishing in the top 10.
Sophomore Kera Reinhard led the way finishing first overall in a time of 21:03.
Not far behind was teammate and fellow classmate Keerstin Augustin who was third (21:47) followed by senior Amanda LaVana (4th/22:13), sophomore Clara Kennedy (5th/22:24), freshman Belle Lees (6th/22:51), senior Abby Heilenman (7th/23:11) and freshman Maddy Toretta (8th/23:24).
Emmaus will next be in action on Saturday as they compete in the Paul Short Invitational at Lehigh University. The girls race will begin at 3:45 p.m.
Follow @Emmaussports and @HornetsXC on twitter for continued updates on the team throughout the season.