Wappingers Falls NY - One week before Nike Cross National - Northeast and New York qualifiers are held at the same venue, the New York State Federations Meet is held at historic Bowdoin Park. Federations, billed as the true test of New York speed, allows for teams from every division of NYS cross country: ranging from NYSPHSAA, PSAL, NYAIS, and CHSAA. While it may not be the meet of champions some claim to be, as notable top teams such as Fayetteville-Manlius and North Shore typically bow out to prepare for regional qualifiers, the meet was highlighted by some great competition and fast times regardless. Also, unlike the NYSPHSAA State Meet, it allows runners to wear their team jerseys, a point of contention among some coaches.
Girls Division:
Individual: Mary Cain of Bronxville
Team: Saratoga Springs
Breakdown: Mary Cain was finally able to showcase her talent under pressure, as Laura Leff of West Genesee and Alexis Panisse of Benjamin Cardozo were predicted to be serious threats to Cain's perfect season. Blasting through the 5000 meter course, Cain surprised even herself as she came out of the woods with 200 meters to go:
"I came out of the woods and saw the clock at 17:13," Cain told MileSplit. "I was so shocked, I knew I was in for a good time. I feel strong right now, this race felt good, but I know I have room for improvement. But yes, I am ready for next weekend when I race here again."
Laura Leff, no straggler herself, finished in 18:09, followed by New York City's top finisher Alexis Panisse. Lauren Mullins of Johnson City was likewise in the mix, finishing fourth. Leff will competing at Foot Locker next weekend, and with FM and Bronxville both chossing NXN, looks to be one of the top seeds for the girls.
Teamwise, powerhouse Saratoga Springs took the title with little trouble, showcasing why they are ranked 2nd nationally.
Boys
Individual: Brendan Smith of Christian Brothers Academy - Syracuse
Team: Shaker
Breakdown: Brendan Smith has had a stellar season so far. Predicted to be in the latter half of the top 10 in the beginning of the season, his times have dropped significantly over the season to give him an undefeated second half. His winning ways continued at Bowdoin with one of the closest finishes Smith has seen yet. In the final stretch, Smith was being trailed by Dan Galford of Monsignor Farrell and Thomas Awad of Chaminade, both top runners of the New York City area and both nipping at Smith's heels the whole way home. Galford, with a strong surge, actually took the lead from Smith, but luckily Smith had enough time to respond and surge to a first place finish. We spoke with Smith about his season and his race:
"I did a little research about the pair of city runners before I came into the race, so I knew I was running with talent," Smith said. "Coming home, I felt them right behind me, I even had to look back for a second to see how close they actually were. I am so happy with my win today, it really is everything I have been working for. Last year, I came out here and this meet didn't mean much to me. This year, I realized how much talent there is, and how important this meet is. I had never run against either of those guys (Galford and Awad), and it was just important for me that I did."
Shaker nabbed the overall title, winning by 30 points over rival Arlington. Mike Libruk brought home 4th place to aid in the effort.
