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Elkins runners eyeing another state berth

The Inter-Mountain photo by Brooke Binns The Elkins High School cross country team recently completed their summer session in preparation for a strong season. Pictured from left are coach Matt Lewis, Antony Dong, Austin Whetsell, Charlie Smoak, Hunter Shreve, Isaac Whetsell, Luke Anger, Ben Auvil, Natalie Sutton and coach Melissa Carr.

ELKINS — The Elkins High Tiger cross country team recently wrapped up their three-week summer session on Friday.

The Tigers have been averaging around 20 runners, with even more expected when the season begins on Aug. 5.

The Tigers will be looking to advance to their eighth consecutive state championship and their 14th in the last 16 years.

“Our team looks a little different this year, as we are relying on a lot of sophomores, but it’s a very talented group,” EHS head coach Matt Lewis said.

“Honestly, the work ethic of these guys has been phenomenal,” Lewis added.

The Tigers return a talented group that advanced four returning members from last year’s state championships.

“I really haven’t felt this confident about a team in a few years,” Lewis said.

The Lady Tigers will be looking to make it a second straight trip to the West Virginia State Meet and will also be relying on a talented group of sophomores.

“Our girls are ready for the challenge,” coach Melissa Carr said. “I mean yes, you can say we are young, but the amount of experience these kids have from last year puts us in an excellent position.”

“We’ve got an incredible group moving forward and I think both Melissa and I are looking forward to August and making another return trip to the state meet,” Lewis added. “We’ve also been granted the privilege of being the Regional Championship host, which is a huge testament to what the Elkins running program has become.”

The first practice of the season will take place at the D&E Athletic Fields at 8 a.m. on Aug. 5.

Elkins will host two meets, the annual Forest Festival Invitational on Sept. 7 and the Regional Championships on Oct. 24.

For more information please feel free to contact Lewis at 304-614-4490 or Carr at 304-621-7412.

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