It was a beautiful autumn day at Stephenfield Provincial Park as athletes from across the Carman-Dufferin area competed in the Zone 4 Manitoba High School Athletic Association Cross Country Championships on Oct. 2.
Twenty-one runners from Grades 6 through 12 represented Carman Collegiate at the meet, which coach Larisa Ens said was an ideal day for racing.
“The weather was perfect for running, and being able to stay close to home having the zone meet at Stephenfield Provincial Park was a bonus,” Ens said. “I’m thankful for the staff at Carman Collegiate and Miami School that volunteered their time to co-host the event for the second year.”
Ens said one standout moment was Grade 6 runner Kenya Nordstrom placing second overall in the Grade 7 and 8 girls’ division — a strong finish given that all Grade 6 competitors run with the older age group.
“It’s great being on the trails with the athletes each autumn,” she said. “Our cross country team runs as a hybrid model with some students training to compete and some students choosing to use our training run times as a run club for fitness and/or mental wellness with no intention to compete at any races. It’s a great group that encourages each other even though there is a vast age range amongst the runners.”
Carman Collegiate had several teams reach the podium, including the Junior Varsity Boys, Grade 7-8 Boys, and Grade 7-8 Girls, all of whom placed third overall in their respective divisions.
Ens said she was proud of every athlete who represented the school.
“I see their passion on the trail, and I’m proud of the effort and commitment they give to the sport,” she said.
The event drew schools from across Zone 4 as athletes chased personal bests and team banners under clear skies and warm fall colours.
