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Cross Country Squads End Campaign At Section Meet
Bruin sign

The season for the Riverbank cross country boys and girls came to an end on Saturday, Nov, 16 at the Section course in Folsom.

The varsity boys and girls both finished sixth in the section.

“That isn’t bad considering there are 38 teams in Division IV, but it isn’t where we want to be,” said head coach Monte Wood. “The kids gained valuable experience, and we have a lot of runners coming back. This experience should provide them with motivation for the off season to trainer harder and smarter.”

In the boys race, Ramon Rosas medaled and ran a great race, said Wood. He missed qualifying to state by just three places.

“Ironically, he would have qualified in DIII, but DIV is really tough,” noted the coach. “Adan Salgado ran a great race also. Ramon and Adan were the top two boy runners by time in Stanislaus County at the section race. They have also been our two most dedicated athletes.”

Also, the coach added, Isaiah Bargas ran a great race. The team, though, was hurt by Nico Pulido being sick.

“He is usually our number three runner and had been sick for a week,” Wood pointed out. “He tried his best and is to be commended for that, but he was weakened and just couldn’t do what he usually does.”

In the girls race, Livi Fernandez ended up being the top runner for the Lady Bruins.

“She and Dayanara Ruvalcaba have been switching places as 1-2 all year. Both of them ran smart races, taking out a little slower, and did a great job of passing numerous runners over the last half of the race,” Wood explained. “Marissa Cruz also ran a great race. She and Ainsley Wood were doing a great job working together and were in a great place with a mile to go.”

However, Wood aggravated a hip injury on a steep downhill, and Cruz pushed on.

“I think we could have moved up to fifth if Ainsley hadn’t become injured,” said Wood. “With so many freshmen and sophomores in the race for us, it was a great experience, and we hope to challenge for a state berth next year.”

Sophomore Nick Mangiapane medaled in the frosh/soph boys race. The frosh/soph boys team finished fifth overall.

“This was a great group of kids to work with, and I look forward to seeing their development in the years to come,” Wood summarized. “Ramon Rosas will continue his running career at MJC, so it will be great to have him close and being able to follow his development.”