Sulphur cross country teams ran strong in the state Class 4A meet last Saturday, each finishing in seventh place to cap impressive seasons.
The Dogs were led by Morgan Brown’s top 15 performance, and the girls were paced by Jayden Lee’s 16th place finish. Both will return to bolster their teams next season as senior leaders.
“I couldn’t be more proud of this group,” said girl’s coach, Kari Seitz. “Along with the tough competition, the conditions on Saturday were also extremely challenging. Rain and mud turned the course into a mess, but I thought the girls handled it well.”
Head Sulphur boy’s coach, Emile Heitland, was equally as impressed with his team’s effort. “In my opinion, 4A is the toughest class in Oklahoma cross country. Many of the private schools have moved up to class 4A due to their success, which makes it an extremely competitive field.”
All total there were 59 boy’s teams and 56 girl’s teams competing at the event, held at North Rock Creek High School.
Seitz, who is beginning her first year at the helm, said it was an amazing season for the girls.
“Saturday was just another chapter in what has been an amazing season for this group,” she said. “I couldn’t be more proud of them and all they’ve accomplished. Jayden Lee broke her own school record twice, while Hannah Hail and Rory McMillan also joined Paxtyn Hiser on the school’s record board. Mady Hatfield, Landry Eason, and Daniela Rojo Rios all showed tremendous determination and growth throughout the season. Daniela, the only senior on the qualifying team, finished her high school career with a new personal record. We will definitely miss her next year—she’s been such a big part of this team.”
Following Lee, the Lady Bulldogs top runners were, in order of finish, Hannah Hail, Paxtyn Hiser, Landy Eason, Rory McMillan, Mady Hatfield and Daniela Rojo Rios.
Heitland said he was proud for his junior standout, Morgan Brown, who earned a state medal and a spot on the podium.
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CC Teams
“He ran a smart, disciplined race, not getting caught up in the fast early pace,” said Heitland. “He settled into his pace from the start and ran his own race, which ultimately positioned him to finish in the top 15.”
Following Brown in order of finish were Calvin Downey, Landy DeArman, Korbin Mayo, Noah Heitland, Keaton Seitz, and Zak Kirk.
Four on the team are seniors, including Heitland, Mayo, DeArman, and Kirk. “It was a bittersweet day,” said Heitland, “all four ran extremely well, and Landy even recorded his personal best time. It’s tough knowing I won’t get to coach these guys next season, but I’m so proud of the legacy they’re leaving behind.”
