Elmira High School’s cross country team competed at Lebanon for districts last Wednesday, and senior Jude Carman advanced to state for the second year in a row.
At districts, Carman placed 4th overall with a time of 16:43, a time just shy of his personal best.
“I’m feeling really prepared,” Carman told Falcon News. “I feel like less of a novice to state this year.”
Carman is hopeful for what he can accomplish at the competition.
“What I’m going for is top 10, then I can get recognized and have a medal,” the senior runner said.
Carman will race in the state competition this Saturday at Lane Community College. The race will begin at 11:10 a.m.
Junior Jake VanDamme placed 9th at districts with a personal best time of 17:35, just barely missing out on the state competition.
“I was happy with my performance at districts. I got top 10, which was a goal of mine,” VanDamme said. “Of course, I wanted to get to state this year, but I kept improving so I can’t be too mad.”
The junior is hopeful for the teams next season, but is also sad about Carman’s departure from it.
“I’m definitely excited for next season,” VanDamme said. “It will be really sad without Jude. He has been a role model for me when it comes to running since ninth-grade year.”
