The Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn cross country teams started their competitive season Aug. 27 at the Deb Hankens Invitational, held at Cherokee Golf and Country Club. The weather was hot and the course challenging for the season-opener.

"The temps were in the high-90s and the course was hilly. It was a really tough environment," Hawk coach Nicole Dorhout said. "I'm proud of the athletes who ran a tough 5,000-meter course."

The girls' team was led by junior Madison Otto's seventh-place finish and a medal for placing in the Top 10.

"Madison is looking really good already," Dorhout said. "She has a...