Graham grabs spot in state cross country meet
NOV. 6, 2012, Nov 06, 2012 (Menafn - The Morehead News - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) --There is no better place to be young, athletic and full of energy, than in a race which requires all three.
Rowan County seventh grader Janae Graham proved this point at Saturday's Regional Cross Country at Mason County, taking home a sixth-place finish with a time of 21:03.
Though his team did not make the final cut for the state meet, Rowan Coach Shawn Thacker was thrilled to see his young runner qualify.
"Janae has really proven just how capable she is during her first three weeks running varsity," Thacker said. "She shows a lot of guts, especially considering she usually competes against older runners."
The Lady Vikings, who did not compete in KHSAA cross country last year, had seven runners hit the course in Maysville on Saturday.
Kelsey Cyrus finished 32nd and 37th, with times of 24:26 and 25:01, respectively. Graham's fellow seventh grader, Sarah Hallock, rounded out the top 40 for Rowan, crossing the finish line at the 25:01-mark.
Hannah Eldridge, Allie Terrell and Allie Banks finished 48th, 50th and 51st.
Thacker's feelings about his team's season reflect progress within the girls cross country program.
"This sport is not easy, and these girls came out and competed for their school," Thacker said. "I am very proud of the fact we are starting to see some progress with our program here, and I definitely think it is headed in the right direction."
Thacker and Graham will be making the trip up to Lexington on Saturday to compete in the State Cross Country meet, held at the Kentucky Horse Park.
Be sure to stick with The Morehead News for more on Graham's progress in the cross country postseason.
Grant Stevens can be reached at gstevens@themoreheadnews.com o
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