District Champs! Westlake High Girls Cross Country

Another great win for the Westlake Demons at the Division 1 District Championship race at LCCC. Not only did they take home the title, but they did so very easily against 25 schools, scoring only 65 points to 2nd place Medina’s 113.

This win by these lady demons is only the 3rd District title in the 45-year history of the program.

According to Coach Sullivan, these girls did make history. Not only did they win the title, but 6 out of the 7 team members crossed the finish line within the top 30. “In a race like this, it’s not very common to see your top 5, let alone your top 6 finish so far up front,” said Sullivan. “I couldn’t be more proud.”

Despite the win, the girls were a little frustrated with their individual performances. While Junior co-captain Sarah Peer placed 2nd, she wasn’t feeling it. “It was hot and humid,” said Peer. “After practicing in 40 degrees all week, the 75-degree heat was a little unexpected.” Freshman Julia Richards, who came in an impressive 21st place, did so with a rock in her shoe and Junior co-captain Christina Ware who placed an equally impressive 20th overall was recovering from an illness that kept her from practicing most of the week.

Senior co-captain Sydney Peer came in 8th place and earned a course PR. The race is her 4th regional qualifying race and according to retired coach Travis Haselwerdt, only 8 other Westlake Demons have done that in the history of the program.

Junior Ellie Irwin placed 14th, Sophomore Maggie Hennessey was the 28th individual to cross and Senior co-captain Sarah Colman finished 79th, passing several girls near the finish, displacing runners to widen the point gap.

This win puts another trophy in an overflowing trophy case. They run at Boardman next weekend where they hope to bring home the regional title.