Although the team was a bit short on numbers, all six Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn junior varsity cross country runners brought home individual medals from the Alta-Aurelia Invite on Sept. 28.

With a few kids out, Hawk coach Nicole Dorhout decided to run those who remained in the junior varsity division.

“Some of these kids are capable of running varsity but since we didn’t have the numbers to put up a complete team, we decided to let them run JV for a meet. We often ask them to move up to varsity, but once in a while it’s nice for a freshman or sophomore to be with others their age.”

In the JV girls’ race, Ashleigh Vermeer was the runner-up and teammate Lexi Croatt finished fourth. Also medaling were Jaela Anliker in 13th place and Hailey Grotluschen in 14th. Dorhout was pleased with their performances.

“All four of them were aggressive in their racing and pushed the pace from the beginning,” she said. “It was really neat to see them in the thick of the competition.”

On the boys’ side, Bryce Dodge placed fourth and Gavin Faulkner was 15th.

“Again, these JV races are great experiences for the boys,” Dorhout said. “Every race offers another opportunity to improve.”

Although many of the girls will probably move back to varsity competition soon, the one-meet break from that division offers a couple of benefits.

“First of all, it gives kids a chance to compete against kids matching their age and experience,” Dorhout said. “Also, it’s a little different pace, even though it’s still a 5K race. In that way, it’s just the same.”

Dorhout said the runners continue to improve their times as well. “We’re seeing a consistent drop in times throughout the season. We can’t ask for more than that.”

The Hawks are scheduled to compete in the G-LR/CL meet at George (Otter Valley) on Oct. 8 and host the War Eagle Conference meet on Oct. 12 at Sanborn Golf and Country Club.

ALTA-AURELIA INVITATIONAL

Girls’ JV: Ashleigh Vermeer, second, 25:41; Lexi Croatt, fourth, 26:34; Jaela Anliker, 13th, 28:48; Hailey Grotluschen, 14th, 29:04 (all medalists).

Boys’ JV: Bryce Dodge, fourth, 22:30; Gavin Faulkner, 15th, 27:47 (all medalists).