Phil Williams, Tonganoxie cross country coach has the team running fewer miles at a faster pace in preparation for league, regionals and a possible state appearance.

Last Thursday at DeSoto, both the boys and girls ran well.
Jacob Hoffhines finished first for the boys, placing fifth in 17:54. The boys won the team competition, beating Pembroke Hill without Kyle Norris.

Williams said Norris, the team’s No. 2 runner, has a knee injury and might not compete again this season.

The girls narrowly lost to Pembroke Hill, finishing three points behind in second place.

Laura Korb, once again, was the top Tonganoxie finisher. She placed second in 12:20.

“I thought the girls won,” Williams said. “I was surprised they didn’t. They ran well.”

Alicia Stauch was the second Chieftain to finish. She placed 11th.
“Alicia, I’m sure, ran her best race,” Williams said. “She went out with the top six or seven like she meant business.”

Six girls and six boys medaled for Tonganoxie at DeSoto.

As the boys prepare to defend their league title, Williams said Bryan Gurss and Andy Snapp have both improved in recent weeks.

Snapp finished sixth he was the second Chieftain to cross the finish line. Gurss, who has also run junior varsity this season, placed 12th and was the fourth Chieftain across the line.

Junior varsity notes

Both the boys and girls ran well in the junior varsity race at DeSoto.
Tommy Powell and David Saultz placed first and second respectively in the boys’ race.

Ashley Baggett and Kristen Korb finished one and two respectively in their race.

The boys grabbed five of the top 10 places.

Up next
The team runs at the Kaw Valley League meet which begins at 4:30 p.m. in Leavenworth on the campus of Saint Mary College.