Bella Shoemaker qualifies for states with 13th place finish
by Jamie Harris
The Berkeley Springs Indians cross country team delivered one of the most thrilling surprises of the Region II Championships this past Saturday, October 25, clinching a coveted third-place finish and a berth to the Class AA State Cross Country Championships.
In a field dominated by powerhouse programs, the Indians rose to the occasion with grit and determination. Lincoln (28 points) and Frankfort (36 points) secured the top two spots, but it was Berkeley Springs who stole the spotlight by edging out host Braxton County and South Harrison with a team score of 99 points.
Leading the charge for the Indians was junior Jay Nazelrod, who turned in a breakout performance with a 12th-place finish in 19:29. His effort, which exceeded pre-race expectations, earned him recognition as the meet’s top performer.
Close behind were teammates Josh Lucas (18th, 20:44), Haven Ailor (23rd, 21:33), Dustin Smith (25th, 21:58), Josh Walls (26th, 22:06) and Liam Stewart (30th, 23:55), each contributing crucial points to the team’s total.
On the girls’ side, sophomore Bella Shoemaker earned her spot at the state meet with a strong 13th-place finish, clocking in at 23:37. Senior Eva Sealey wrapped up her high school cross country career with a 25th-place finish in 32:50, leaving it all on the course.
The WVSSAC Class AA State Cross Country Championships will be held this Saturday, November 1, at Cabell Midland High School in Cabell County. The girls’ race is set for 1 p.m., followed by the boys at 1:45 p.m., which is widely regarded as one of the most challenging courses in the state.
With momentum on their side and a state berth secured, the Indians are ready to make their mark.
photo by Lisa Walls
