Newark Valley NY - What started off a rainy day, soon tapered off into a slight mist, as it was opening weekend in upstate New York. In Section 4, Newark Valley High School hosted the Red/White/Blue/Gold Invitational, named for the collective colors of Newark Valley and Maine-Endwell. The meet proved to be a strong starting point for several individuals and relays in the Southern Tier.
Lansing's Cameron Bruce returns to win
The senior from Lansing had a strong cross country season, including numerous wins in Section 4, and placing 23rd overall at the States' merge, but mysteriously went missing from the rankings during the winter season.
"I took the time off to just run for fun for once," Bruce said. "I enjoy running, and it gave me time to relax. I ran a couple of open races, but nothing too major."
Bruce took back to the track today, running the 1600 and the 4x800. While Bruce did clock an impressive 2:06 split in the relay, his 4:25 time in the 1600 grabbed peoples attention.
"I may have missed the indoor season, but I was watching everything very closely online. I saw the mile times keep going down, and tried to familiarize myself with the names running them. My goal this spring is to qualify and place well in the 1600m at States, and it is good for me to know my competition.
Bruce looked smooth in the cold temperatures, peaking right around 40 degrees. His 4:25.9 is currently NY #2.
Crimmins Doubles Up
Brian Crimmins of Horseheads, our Mid-Distance Indoor All-Star Runner-Up, took to the track as well. Seeded first in the 800m dash, Crimmins failed to disappoint as he ran a very strong early-season 1:54.6
"I like running Outdoor" Crimmins said, "but you have to have a whole different strategy than [the 1000m]. It's a completely different race."
Crimmins returned to the track later in the meet to anchor the 4x400. His split of 51.6 was impressive after such a cold day.
Other Highlights
Hometown hero Jenna Cupp of Newark Valley placed 2nd last year at Outdoor States. She opens up her 2012 season with a win in the 800m in 2:26.6
Alicia Sutphin of Vestal found success in the 1500m, placing 1st in a strong 5:08.5
The boys of Ithaca were very successful as well. Sophomore Monde Semon won the 100m dash, while junior Tevin Smith anchored the winning 4x100m. In the field events, Ithaca senior Sam Cherney threw a monster NY #1 165-8 in the boys discus.
