NORMAN — In a sport that is built around how fast a person can run, Abby Mace wasn’t too worried about her time. Competing in the regional cross country meet Saturday at Irving Middle school, the Norman North harrier had the bigger picture in mind.
So when Mace clocked in with a time of 12:12 to take fourth place, her biggest concern was how the rest of her team performed.
“I tried my best,” Mace said. “That’s really all you can give. For us this year it’s not so much about time. It’s about our team standing. With one of us, it’s not going to happen but with a team, it’s a definite possibility to make it to that top spot at state.”
Mace was joined in the top 10 by Isabella Rose, Rachel Chrisman and Sheridan Spellman.
“If we can get as many girls into the top 10 as possible, that’s just going to increase our chances of getting the top spot at state,” Mace said.
If the Timberwolves’ regional performance is any indication, then Mace may be on the right track. North racked up 46 points to win the regional girls’ crown. It was 25 places ahead of runner-up Mustang. Norman (77), Westmoore (79) and Edmond Memorial (110) rounded out the top five.
“The girls are running their best here at the end of the season as well and they love the Edmond Santa Fe course so we are hoping to make a great showing at State,” Westmoore coach Laura Clay said. “Alex Scott had a great performance. It wasn’t her best time but she ran a smart race. She and Shelby Miller made the all regional team by placing in the top 10.”
On the boys’ side, Edmond Memorial won the title going away with 28 points. Norman was second with 84 and North took third with 112.
The Jaguars Alex Davis took eighth overall in one of his best performances of the year and sets him up for a good run at state.”
“Alex ran great,” Clay said. “He set a new personal record, made the all-regional team. I couldn’t be prouder of him. We are working to peak at the right time. Hopefully he will be rested and ready to run his best race next week.”
The Tigers’ Mackenzie Wahpepah-Harris led all area runners with a time of 16:07, which was good enough for second. The Timberwolves’ Ben Barrett held down fourth after running the course in 16:32.
The 6A state meet is Saturday in Edmond. While Scott looks to build upon what she accomplished at the regional, Westmoore has bigger goals as a team.
“I am hoping she puts it all together next week and has her best time and best placing of the year,” Clay said. “ We run like a pack this year. No real stinger like other teams have. This year the teams are all so close in talent that if you have a great day you could end of first or second. A bad day sixth or seventh.”
Michael Kinney Follow me @eyeamtruth mkinney@mooreamerican.com
