Published September 25, 2019
WILMINGTON — The Wakefield High girls’ cross country team shut out Wilmington yesterday in their first Freedom Division meet, taking the first seven spots to win 15-50.
“Our strategy was to have a first and second pack that pushed each other and we definitely achieved that,” said Wakefield head coach Karen Barrett.
Wakefield’s top three of captain Olivia Lucey (20:51), Sammy Seabury (20:52) and Elina Olmedo (20:53) took charge and never looked back in this one, with all three finishing together to secure a top three sweep for the Warriors.
THE FIRST PACK swept the top three spots against Wilmington yesterday. Pictured from left to right is Sammy Seabury, Elina Olmedo and Olivia Lucey. (Colleen Riley Photo)
“I love that we have three girls that can really push each other in the front of the pack and maintain a lead throughout the entire race,” said Barrett.
As for the second pack, Grace Butler (21:52), captain Retta Carroll (21:53) Devon Jellison (21:53) and Shannon Driscoll (21:54) also crossed the finish line together, all ahead of Wilmington’s top runner.
“The second pack all did their job pushing each other,” said Barrett. “I was really happy with the way my girls raced today. They trusted their training and it paid off. Taking the top seven spots is quite an accomplishment.”
Nicole Calandra was Wakefield’s 8th runner – a great finish in her first cross country meet.
Aiva Barnard and Caroline Collins also ran well for the Warriors.
The Warriors will now get ready for the Frank Kelley Invitational this weekend in Wrentham.
“This is a great trial run for our state meet which will also be at Wrentham,” said Barrett. “We will continue to work hard and prepare for Saturday.”
