The Cape Fear Cross Country team has had an incredible start to the season, with both the boys and girls teams showing determination, teamwork, and strong performances against several schools.

Last Wednesday afternoon, the Cape Fear Cross Country team competed in their first conference meet of the season at the Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center. Despite the heat and competition, the runners performed extremely well. The boys team took 1st place against Terry Sanford, Lumberton, Scotland, Gray’s Creek, and Purnell Swett. The boys dominated the top three spots, with Max Mello placing 1st with a time of 19:47, Chris Shick placing 2nd with a time of 19:50, and Collin Shick placing 3rd with a time of 19:52.

“The boys came out dominating. They’ve proven in the last two meets that they are the competition everyone is chasing,” said Mrs. Demchock, the XC girls coach.

The girls team also had a strong performance, finishing 2nd overall against Lumberton, Scotland, Gray’s Creek, and Purnell Swett. Shaddai Martell placed 3rd with a time of 26:00, while Lacey Bullard finished with a time of 27:49. All of the girls on the team contributed and did a fantastic job.

Last Monday, the Colts competed in Tri-County Meet #2 at their home school against Terry Sanford, Lumberton, and Purnell Swett. The boys continued their strong season by taking 1st place with 20 points, finishing ahead of the other three schools for the second time.

Chris Shick led the boys with an overall 1st-place finish and a time of 18:13.39. Maximus Mello followed closely behind in 2nd place with a time of 18:13.72, while Collin Shick finished 3rd with a time of 18:13.84. The boys continue to dominate the top three spots and have quickly established themselves as a team to watch this season.

The girls also performed well, finishing 3rd overall with 78 points against Lumberton and Purnell Swett. Shaddai Martell led the girls by placing 5th with a time of 25:58, Lacey Bullard placed 13th with a time of 29:01, and Ayonna Smith finished 16th with a time of 31:13.

“The ladies are continuing to show they’re working hard in practice and staying consistent as they’re running as a pack together!” said Mrs. Demchock, the girls coach.

Overall, both teams have shown great teamwork, determination, and improvement throughout the beginning of the season. With the boys continuing to dominate and the girls continuing to build momentum, the Cape Fear Colts are off to a strong start. The team will continue working hard and looking to improve throughout the rest of the season.

The next meet will be held at Scotland High School on September 9th at 4:15 p.m. Come out and support the Cape Fear Cross Country team!