Pirates to Close Season at IC4A/ECAC Championships
11/18/2011 12:00:00 AM | Men's Cross Country
Though by now the Pirates are no strangers to the difficult course, Van Cortlandt Park takes pride in always presenting a challenge. With the daunting Cemetery Hill and numerous other inclines awaiting the Hall's runners, the blue and white have spared no time in preparing for the fall's final faceoff.
"We are excited because this is our third time at Van Cortlandt Park, and we've been preparing for it all week by running more inclines and hills," says Coach John Moon. "This is our own backyard, and our runners know the course very well.
Junior captain Jared Hanko has turned in team-best finishes at every race this season, and will look to lead the Pirates through the hills and valleys on Saturday. His counterpart on the women's side, freshmen Mary Migton has also posted team-best finishes at each meet, including multiple top-10 finishes to highlight her rookie stretch.
Senior Erik Chester has poured in solid efforts throughout the fall on the men's side, and Sophomore Carl Johnston has recently gained momentum and will aim to carry it over into the season finale. After a mid-season bout with injury, Junior Hughnique Rolle has also come on as of late, turning in notable times for the women.
"Competition is going to be very tough, as always," adds Moon. "But we are in the best shape we've been in all season, and this is a course we are extremely familiar with."
Van Cortlandt Park will play host to BIG EAST rivals Rutgers, St. John's, and Pittsburgh, among others in a very tough field of almost 100 competitors. The men will be taking on their final 8K on the year, while the women close the fall with a 5K.
The Pirates can look forward to prime running weather heading into the final meet as well, as Saturday looks to be in the mid-40's and sunny.
"We love it when it starts getting cold - it's beautiful weather for racing," says Moon. "We are excited and ready to go. Adrenaline is high and everyone wants to end on a good note."
