Punxsy boys cross country team third at IUP Crimson Hawk Invitational

INDIANA — Despite placing two runners in the top 10, the Punxsutawney boys cross country team only managed to finish in third in the team standings at Saturday's Crimson Hawk Invitational, held at IUP's South Campus course.

There were a total of 14 schools who attended the meet, although only six of the 14 had enough runners to field a full squad and receive a team score. Indiana won the team competition with 27 points, followed by Kiski Area at 52 and the Chucks with 75. A total of 74 runners finished the challenging 3.1-mile route.

"Today was a bit of a struggle team-wise, as a couple of our top runners were not at their best, but as always, there were some positives to take away from this race and we'll look forward to the next one on the schedule," said Punxsy Coach George Wehrle.

Owen Putt from Indiana won the race in 17:59, with Tucker Klotz from Ligonier Valley just fourseconds back in the runnerup position.

Punxsy senior Andrew Barnoff placed third overall in 18:17, while junior Evan Groce was sixth in a time of 18:31. "Andrew's time was the eighth fastest alltime by a Punxsy runner on this course, while Evan's was the 10th fastest, so both guys, obviously, ran well and earned medals by placing in the top 10 overall," said Wehrle.

Eric Surkala placed 30th overall in 21:20, followed by Mike Setree in 38th with a time of 22:13 and Jaden Schidlmeier two places later at 22:23. "Eric went out quite hard and led for a while but just couldn't maintain it today, as normally he's up there near Andrew and Evan," said Wehrle. "Mike and Jaden both had strong races and made our top five for the first time ever, I do believe, so good for them."

Colby Thompson placed 45th at 23:29, Cody Pifer ran 23:51 to finish 49th and Mike Clemmer was 53rd in 24:12. "Cody had the best race of the three based on time comparisons, but Colby and Mike did some good things today as well," said Wehrle. "This course was not easy as it had several gradual climbs and thick grass, so I think everyone will look forward to Kane's “runner-friendly” layout on Tuesday," said Wehrle.

Junior Dan Lenze was timed in 24:48 and crossed the line 57th, while freshman Coleton Yoder came across in 25:30 to place 62nd and senior Ian Young ran 30:01 to finish 72nd.

"Nice overall efforts by Coleton and Ian, as on a tougher course, Coleton ran just 20 seconds slower than his seasonal best, and Ian was under a minute from his," said Wehrle. "Dan did not feel well and did his best just to get across the line, so he's one of the guys we'll hope to see get back on track next race."

Punxsy will compete against Kane and Brockway at Kane on Tuesday.