Cross county runners look to improve this season

Bringing back a handful of runners who made the 3A state meet a season ago, there’s an optimistic outlook for Boulder City High School cross country this upcoming season.

“I think our returning runners bring with them the knowledge and understanding of the sport,” first-year head coach Jared Lichniak said. “They understand their own abilities to push their limits and reach the next level both physically and mentally.”

Back for the boys after making appearances at state last season are Caleb Wolfe and Cameron Riley, who will be relied on this season to be the team leaders.

“Caleb is an incredible runner whose passion for this sport and running is going to take him incredible places,” Lichniak said.

Looking to do even better at state this season now as seasoned veterans, Wolfe finished 41st out of 66 runners with a time of 19:26, while Riley finished 51st with a time of 21:05.

Rounding out the boys team will be veterans Robert Koop and Austin Hower, along with newcomers Alex Rodriguez and Oliver Porter.

For the girls, Zoey Hayes returns to a girls team that currently only holds two members, with aspirations of returning to state as an individual qualifier.

“Zoey is an amazing athlete who has shown the ability to perform at the highest level and on the biggest stage,” Lichniak said.

At state last season, Hayes finished 39th out of 55 runners.

She’ll team this year with fellow field runner Khloei Chisholm.

Opening up the season this week, the Eagles will compete in the Virgin Valley Invitational on Saturday.