The girls’ cross country team sent two runners to state this season. Juniors Zoe Kirkman and Maya Hall were sent off on the morning of Nov. 4 in the commons. 

The Illinois State Cross Country Championship took place the following day on Nov. 5 with schools from all over the state participating. Zoe Kirkman and Maya Hall both competed in the IHSA Class 3A Women’s Varsity race. The track was three miles, and the meet was held in Peoria. Out of over 200 female runners, both girls had placed in the top 150.

Hall placed 145 with a time of 19:46.48. Her best time on a three mile run for this season was 18:29.9 at the IHSA Sectionals held at Waubonsie Valley earlier in the season. 

“It feels rewarding because I have put a lot a lot of work into this season,” Maya said. “I was disappointed with the time because I could have ran faster but I also know that the course was muddy and not in great conditions.”

Kirkman ended the race only 5 places behind Hall. She finished the race with a time of 19:48.97, placing her at 149. Kirkman’s personal record for the three mile run this season was 19:06.8, which she set during the IHSA Sectionals.

“It was great when all of our friends came to cheer us on,” Zoe Kirkman said. “My teammates and I have been training since June so to see all our hard work pay off was great.”

The team had a good season this year and both Zoe and Maya are looking forward to joining them again next fall.