Cruiser Cross Country Sending Three To State Championships

The Eatonville Cruiser Cross Country team delivered an impressive performance at the Southwestern Washington District 4 meet, with three of their runners securing spots at the upcoming state championships. The state meet, set to take place at the Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco, Washington, is scheduled for Saturday, November 4th.

Eatonville's three state meet qualifiers pose following the District 4 meet. From left to right, Colton Rush, Grace Coonrod, Joey Mueller. Photo: Geoff Olson

In a remarkable show of strength, the team saw nine of its 12 runners achieve personal best times at the event, setting the stage for their success at the state meet.

Head coach Geoff Olson expressed his pride and enthusiasm for the athletes. "I am so proud to be coaching these amazing student-athletes. They have worked extremely hard this year, and it has paid off with the culmination of the state meet," he said.

Among the standout performers were two boys and one girl, who secured their spots at the state championships. Senior Joey Mueller, who had an outstanding four-year career in cross country, will be wrapping up his high school journey with a shot at the state championship. Coach Olson expressed his happiness for Joey, stating, "Joey being a senior has had a very good four years, and he will be missed. I am so happy for him to be finishing up his four cross country seasons at the state meet."

Sophomores Colton Rush and Grace Coonrod are returning to the state meet for the second time, and their coach is eagerly anticipating their performance. "As for Colton and Grace, both sophomores, are going back for the second time to state. Can't wait to see all three, how good they will run this next weekend at Pasco," Olson said.

Here are the results from the Southwestern Washington District 4 meet:

**Boys Results**

6. Colton Rush - 17:12 (Personal Best)

11. Joe Mueller - 17:19 (Personal Best)

23. Benjamin Bernt - 17:52 (Personal Best)

33. Owen Van Eaton - 18:58

34. Mark Nueva - 18:58 (Personal Best)

40. Titus Lowe - 19:20 (Personal Best)

44. Joe Callon - 19:30

**Girls Results**

5. Grace Coonrod - 20:01 (Personal Best)

15. Cheyanne Price - 21:42 (Personal Best)

22. Bridget Stumph - 22:37 (Personal Best)

47. Hannah Bieker - 25:05 (Personal Best)

62. McKenzie Steele - 41:40

The Eatonville Cruiser Cross Country team's remarkable showing at the district meet has set the stage for an exciting and competitive state championship. With their personal best times and the talent of their top runners, they are sure to make their community proud as they represent Eatonville in Pasco.