Lions claw their way to District Championship

For the first time since 1988, the Clear Lake boys cross country team will be returning to the State Cross Country Meet.

The Lions finished first in the field of 15 at the 2A State Qualifying Meet held at Fox Ridge Golf Course in Dike on Thursday, Oct. 22.

Clear Lake sophomore Gretchen Jones also qualified for State as an individual for a second time.

“This is a great accomplishment after a season of hard work and dedication by the entire team,” said Coach Nick DiMarco.  “The four senior captains— Ryan Faught, Kaleb Froiland, Sam Jones, and Spencer Orr, provided the leadership for our younger runners throughout the year and stressed the importance of staying true to our training philosophy and proper course management.  The teams’ hard work paid off in the biggest meet of the season.

The Lions were led by freshman Eric Faught, who placed fourth with a time of 17:02.

“Eric did a great job staying with the leaders of the majority of the race and finished strong,” said DiMarco.

Sam Pedelty ran a fantastic race and was also an individual qualifier, finishing seventh in a time of 17:08.

“Sam continues to be a great course tactician as he paces himself wisely,” said the coach.

Ike Branstad finished 16th in a personal record time of 17:43.

“Ike has shown true dedication over the past 12 months running nearly 1,000 miles in preparation for this meet,” said DiMarco.

Grant Dieken finished 17th in a time of 17:49.  It was the highest Dieken has placed in a race this season and he broke the 18 minute barrier for the first time this year.  Ryan Faught finished 18th in a time of 17:53, despite running while ill.  The coach called Faught’s effort “a very gusty performance to help secure the championship.”

“Ryan’s dedication is a testimony to his character,” said DiMarco.

Spencer Orr placed 28th in a personal record of 18:11 and Kaleb Froiland placed 30th with a personal record of 18:12.  “Spencer and Kaleb fought extremely hard and worked together to push each other to finish so strong.  Spencer and Kaleb kept the placement tight and ensured the Lions’ success.”

Send off planned for State cross country qualifers

There will be a send off for the Clear Lake Lions cross country State qualifiers on Saturday morning at 8:45 a.m. at high school circle drive.  The bus will be leaving at 9 a.m., traveling to Fort Dodge for the State Meet.  The entire CLHS boys team and Gretchen Jones from the girls squad will compete at State.