The Healdsburg Hounds cross country team showcased their grit and determination in a thrilling race at the Hoot Owl Vineyards in Alexander Valley. Despite facing a challenging course and stiff competition, the Hounds delivered a standout performance, with several runners turning in impressive results.

Pushing the Limits on a Rugged Course

The Hoot Owl Vineyards course is renowned for its demanding terrain, with steep inclines, sharp turns, and unstable footing that put the runners' endurance and skill to the test. The bucolic setting, surrounded by vines and trees, belies the rugged nature of the course, which challenged both the Healdsburg Hounds and their rivals, the Piner Prospectors.

A Thrilling Boys' Race

The boys' race was a nail-biter, with Healdsburg junior Jake McWilliams delivering a standout performance. McWilliams, who finished the 3.1-mile course in an impressive 18:27, showcased his strategic prowess by methodically trailing Piner junior Esteban Gaytan for the majority of the race. In a dramatic finish, McWilliams surged ahead in the final 200 yards, crossing the line three seconds ahead of Gaytan."I stayed with him most of the way," McWilliams recounted, "and although he had me on the hills, I caught up with him on the flats." The Hoot Owl Creek course, with its numerous vantage points, allowed spectators to witness the thrilling back-and-forth between the two runners.Despite the Prospectors' overall victory in the boys' race, the Hounds' performance was not without its highlights. Freshman Domenico Cornilsen finished in fourth place with a time of 19:12, while fellow freshmen Lucas Welty (20:10) and Jack Beckman (21:06) also turned in strong showings. Sophomore Lukas Brennan (20:31) and seniors Dash Williams (21:19) and Ross Fitzpatrick (21:38) rounded out the Hounds' impressive roster.

The Girls' Race: A Tight-Knit Effort

The Healdsburg Hounds girls' team ran a steady, efficient race, showcasing their teamwork and camaraderie. While the Piner Prospectors emerged victorious, with senior Kamila Olvera winning the race within five seconds of the course record, the Hounds' performance was not without its bright spots.Freshman Maddie Herzberg placed third with a time of 23:10, demonstrating the depth of the Hounds' roster. Other notable performances came from seniors Joie Kozubal (26:21) and Sierra Anderson (27:13), as well as freshmen Justina Domenichelli (28:31) and Savannah Anderson (28:47).

Looking Ahead: A Crucial Matchup with Ukiah

Despite the Prospectors' overall wins, the Hounds have their sights set on a strong finish to the season. If they can defeat Ukiah in their next race, it will position them well for a potential tie for first place at the league finals, with a chance to claim the pennant.The Hounds' next race against Ukiah, contingent upon victories over Cardinal Newman and Elsie Allen, will be a crucial test of their mettle. With the strong performances of their freshmen and the return of senior star Kaeden Anderson from injury, the Hounds are poised to make a push for the league title.The Hoot Owl Vineyards course has proven to be a challenging yet captivating venue for cross country races, and the Healdsburg Hounds have shown that they have the grit and determination to rise to the occasion. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Hounds as they strive to secure their place at the top of the league.