Cross Country Report
Saturday 31 May 2025
St Joseph’s College Invitation, Riverglade Reserve, Huntleys Cove
After last week’s cancellation at Riverview due to the terrible weather on Friday (and a lovely day on Saturday), St. Joseph’s College meet at Riverglade Reserve marked an important return to racing. On the line were both GPS vs CAS selection and CIS team qualifications; thus, the stakes were high. To add to the excitement was the fact that the course was entirely new terrain, with no one really knowing what to expect.
The Junior team was first to face the mystery course, and they did not disappoint. Harry Nicholson was Shore’s first finisher, a remarkable effort made even more impressive by the fact that Harrison is only in Year 6!!!! His training with us has amazed everyone, pushing even the Senior boys to up the pace. Not far behind was the composed and consistent George Harvey with an excellent race on the new course. Hot on their heels, Jackson Harris and Alex Baxter raced as a unit, pushing each other all the way to the finish. Their teamwork and competitive drive are clear as day, and the boys continue to develop nicely as the season unfolds.
In the Intermediates, Shore’s strength again came through. James Warren put in what can only be described as a heroic effort, finishing as the 3rd GPS athlete overall and locking in his place on the GPS vs CAS team for 2025. His form, composure and determination were on full display, and he rightfully earns this week’s ‘Machine of the Week’ honours. Not far behind, Toby Ward came 5th among the GPS runners, claiming his place in the representative team as well. Jonty Jagger finished strongly just outside the cutoff in 10th place, and will no doubt use that as fuel in coming races. Hugo Stewart is still finding his rhythm post-injury but showed glimpses of his potential, and with time and a few more training sessions under his belt, he will certainly be one to watch heading into the back half of the season.
The Opens team, though short on numbers, produced a characteristic Shore display. With just four runners available on the day, despite most rival schools fielding larger teams, the Opens knew it would be tough but, as usual, took on the challenge. Tom Gray opted for a new race strategy, starting conservatively and executing a strong back half. His patience paid off, overtaking teammate James Bestic in the final 500m to be Shore’s first runner home. Fraser Pandit and Daniel Becker both showed steady improvements, no doubt assisted by recent hill training that is clearly beginning to yield results.
With no race next weekend due to the long weekend, the boys have a perfect opportunity to do some solid training. It’s a crucial moment in the season and time to build some momentum before the final block of races.
Shore Cross Country Machine of the Week:
Unanimously awarded to James Warren for his top-tier performance in the Intermediates and GPS vs CAS team selection.
We’ll see you on course after the long weekend!
James Bestic
Captain of Cross Country 2025
