ABBY RICHARDSON ran a great race in Wakefield’s victory over Wilmington yesterday, taking 6th overall in 21:38. (Courtesy Photo)
WILMINGTON — The Wakefield High girls’ cross country team raced Wilmington yesterday at Wilmington High. The Warriors came away with a 23-33 victory, their fourth consecutive win as they moved to 4-0 in league meets.
“It was a fantastic win,” said head coach Karen Barrett.
Leading the way for the Warriors was senior Lily Sallee, who took 1st overall in 19:20, outrunning Wilmington’s No. 1, senior Addy Hunt who was 2nd in 19:38.
“Lilly was outstanding today,” said Barrett. “She ran a smart, strategic, controlled race and it paid off.”
Sallee, Hunt and Wakefield senior Grace Brackett were together until about mile 2 when Sallee pulled away and never looked back.
“I’m so proud of her for being amazing under pressure,” said Barrett of Sallee.
Brackett also ran a terrific race, picking up key points with a comfortable 3rd overall finish in 19:43.
“Grace had the best race of her career,” said Barrett. “She fought hard and showed so much grit throughout the entire race. Her mental toughness was fun to watch.”
Wilmington took 4th overall but the Warriors snagged 5th and 6th with juniors Liza Bangston (21:27) and Abby Richardson (21:38).
“Liza had a solid performance and Abby continues to impress me with her effort,” said Barrett. “I told her she had to stay ahead of Wilmington’s third runner to put our team in a good position to win and she was definitely up for the task. I loved how she competed today.”
Wilmington’s third runner took 7th overall in 22:31.
Senior Maeve Schermerhorn finished the scoring for Wakefield as the 5th Warrior to cross the line and 8th overall in 22:50.
“I was really proud of all the girls today,” said Barrett.
Wakefield will look to keep it going on Saturday night when they travel to Barnstable to compete in the Twilight Meet.
GRACE BRACKETT finishes strong in Wilmington for 3rd overall in 19:43. (Courtesy Photo)
