By Stacey Fisher
Freelance Reporter
Special to the Tribune

As the sun struggled to rise above the clouds on Saturday morning, November 2, State Cross Country at Wamego was destined to be a wet and rainy affair. The home of the 1A, 2A, and 4A state championships since 2011, Wamego Country Club is a picturesque spot with lots of hills and clearings to challenge competitors and to allow spectators plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of their favorite runner. It is to this proving ground that the qualifying Thunderbirds of Skyline High School traveled; to sum up their season and make good on some goals set at the beginning of the year.

“On the first day of practice this year, the boys’ team stood in the gym and talked about hanging a new banner,” said Head Coach Mike Neifert. “Throughout the season, a top-three finish at State was the goal. At State, the whole team did what it took to get second place. I’m very proud of their efforts and look forward to raising the banner when the time comes.”

The boys’ team did finish in the top three, coming in behind a tough Quinter team to secure the second-place position at state. Leading the charge was Senior Jude Nelson, who crossed at 17:50.25, which was good for ninth. Sophomore Ely Robinson turned in a great performance and finished at 17 with a time of 18:02.88. Next was big brother, Senior Ethan Robinson at 18:24.19, which was the 24 position. Freshman Luke House came in at 19:05.98, which was good for 39. Owen Hemphill finished at 20:00.12, Levi Smith at 21:49.28 and Jacob Ary at 23:08.70.

Junior Trystan Harold picked up a medal when she finished in position 19 with a time of 22:19.48. “Trystan has worked hard from day one of her cross-country career,” said Coach Neifert. “She’s on track to be the first Skyline runner since the girls started running 5K to qualify for State all four years of high school.”