The Pahrump Valley High School Cross Country team delivered a strong performance at the Moapa meet on Saturday, September 14, 2024, with standout finishes and a team championship for both the Varsity B boys and girls teams. The meet featured a more challenging course with long inclines compared to the previous week’s flat, fast terrain, but the Trojans rose to the occasion.
For the Varsity Boys, Antonio Veloz led the way, finishing 8th overall and breaking the 18-minute mark once again, earning a medal. Coach Erik Odegard explained that they tried a new approach for this meet. “We mixed things up for the boys this week as we were working on a few ideas for future training.” Joaquin Flores and Timmy Stutzman both broke 20 minutes on the tough course, while Jacob McLaughlin finished just over 20 minutes.
In the Varsity Girls race, only three girls competed, with Aurora Whitney finishing 6th overall, medaling with a season record time of 22:58. Whitney ran with teammates Savannah and Sasha for the first two miles before breaking away with the lead pack. Savannah and Sasha stayed together, finishing 23rd and 25th, respectively, showcasing teamwork and determination.
The Varsity B teams for both boys and girls claimed the team championships. On the boys’ side, Josh Flores placed 3rd overall, with Daniel Thompson and Jacob Seeback finishing 6th and 7th, all medaling with times just over 20 minutes. Tanner Gott also ran a solid race, finishing 20th overall.
The Varsity B girls put on a dominating performance, placing their first four runners at the front of the race and bringing in the 6th finisher as well. All five girls medaled. Alexis Clouser led the charge, followed closely by teammates Keelee Gieni and Alejandra Abraca Franco. Kimberly Trejo and Ella Odegard, running her first race of the season, worked together to edge out competitors from Centennial and Sierra Vista, finishing 4th and 6th overall.
Reflecting on the team’s efforts, Coach Odegard praised their hard work and adaptability. “The kids have been working hard, and we went into this race with a little different plan since we are still building. I think times were as to be expected, given the course’s long inclines. The kids are really starting to respond to this plan,” he said.
As the season progresses, Coach Odegard plans to extend the team’s training runs and incorporate more speed work, aiming to peak as the month of September draws to a close. With a mix of strategy and determination, the Trojans are building toward even greater success.
L-R: Tanner Gott, Noah Flores, Keldan Frederiksen, Daniel Thompson, Ethan Johnson, Jacob Seeback, Josh Flores and Sam Grabbe
L-R: Ella Odegard, Keelee Gieni, Alexis Clouser, Alejandra Abarca-Franco, Kimberly Trejo
