XC Countdown 2023: #7 Bangor

Top Returning Runners: (Based on 2022 Personal Bests)

2023 Outlook 

The Rams finished fifth in Class A in 2022 and return five runners from that squad including Katie McCarthy who finished 12th at states. McCarthy ran 2:20.54 for 800m during the outdoor season. Sophia Mazzarelli is back after finishing 25th at the state meet in 2022. St. Peter had a strong track campaign that saw her crack six minutes for the first time in the 1600m (5:57.07). With the state meet course at Belfast, Bangor should benefit as they will have a shorter travel distance, and many of there runners are more speed based. The Rams had a great summer of training and will be looking to move up and challenge for a podium spot in Class A this fall.

Coach Roger Huber's Comments

During the Summer of COVID, the team ran 11,258 summer miles, due in large part to the size of the team and the fact that "summer" was extended through mid-September. Despite the accomplishment, the team "only" ran 70% of the miles included in their summer training plans. This summer, the team, while smaller, ran 81% of their assigned summer mileage and there was 100% participation by the runners.  Obviously, summer training does not guarantee success, but it does create opportunities.  The team, both men and women, look forward to taking full advantage of the opportunities they have created for themselves and the team.  I suspect, so too do powerhouses like Bonny Eagle and our perennial challenger Camden Hills.

Expectations are high, especially for the women's team.  The women are a bit deeper.  Everyone is healthy and several of the top women had breakthrough indoor and outdoor track seasons.  And, as noted, their summer training has been outstanding.  They all seem to be approaching running and competing with a newfound sense of seriousness, and pride.  We also added 5-6 young women to the team, so the future looks bright.