Talkeetna Elementary Cross Country Season Ends

Submitted by:  Karen Mannix

Talkeetna Elementary fielded its largest ever cross country team this fall.  Thirty-two students participated, representing nearly one-third of the school population.  Coach Karen Mannix says she is proud of the students and their dedication to getting regular exercise.

On September 25th, the team competed at the Mat-Su District Elementary Races.  Coach Mannix says that the weather was perfect for running, with cool temperatures and overcast skies.  Many students ran in the open run, and the route was lined with golden birch trees and encouraging fans and fellow students.

The Timberwolves were lead by Maya Mossanen, who finished 4th among sixty 5th grade girls, and Katelyn icks, who placed 22nd.  In the Boys 5th grade race, Toby Seay finished 67th.

Talkeetna Elementary had eleven runners in the Girls Open.  4th Grader Keegan Helton was the first Timberwolf across the line, finishing 37th in a field of 128.

In the Boys  Open, the team was lead by Billy Smith who placed 29th among 89 runners.

Finn Benischek lead 4th grade boys in a  competitive field of 108 runners, finishing in 45th place.

Talkeetna also fielded seven 6th grade runners.  Bailey Mischenko lead the girls and Cy Jlley lead the boys in the 2-mile races, placing 20th and 37th, respectively.

Coach Karen Mannix says she would like to thank parents who helped throughout the season.  She says the team appreciates their help, snacks, and running with the team at Talkeetna Lakes Park.