Area runners compete at State Cross Country Meet

Three area athletes competed in the Class 3A State Cross Country meet held over the weekend in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Antonio DiMarco, a senior from Clear Lake, finished 31st in a field of 130.  He ran the course in 

17:02.  DiMarco improved his finishing mark by 35 places from last year’s State meet.

“Antonio has been an excellent leader and example on our team,” said Coach Nick DiMarco.  “His teammates understand the amount of work that he puts in to have the success that he has had.”

DiMarco finished his cross country career as a two-time All Conference nominee, two time All-District recipient and a two time State meet participant.

“As a coach and a parent, I am extremely proud of the way he ran on Saturday,” said DiMarco.

Joel Toppin and Chase Smith represented Garner-Hayfield/Ventura/West Hancock at the State Cross Country Meet.

Smith, a freshman, ran a fantastic race, finishing in seventh place with a time of 16:15.  This was a personal record for Smith.

Toppin, a senior who ends an impressive career, placed 29th with a time of 16:58.

“Chase ran a great race.  Joel’s race was not what he was hoping for, but a great career is not determined by one race,” said Coach Jeff Short.  “I was very proud of how Joel mentored Chase all year, and his dedication and leadership to the program was represented well Saturday at Fort Dodge.”