Lower times translate into higher finishes

Faster times are translating into improved individual and team finishes for the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn cross country program.

That was evident at the Sibley-Ocheyedan Invitational on Sept. 5, where the Hawk boys finished fifth out of 15 teams, placing ahead of some larger schools.

George Vargas ran a strong race to finish 11th overall. He ran the 5K course in 18:41.

Other competitors were Ryan Grotluschen, 35th, 20:41.79; Aiden Bush, 36th, 20:41.92; Damian Dodge, 59th, 21:55; Blaine Finster, 64th, 22:02; and Easton Teal, 90th, 24:47.

"Our Top 5 boys' average times are slowly going down. That i...