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Cross Country Finale For Cougar Squads
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The season finale for Escalon’s cross country teams occurred on Saturday – with only one runner actually getting to toe the line.

Sophomore Briana Briones-Chavarria suited up for Escalon and hit the course in Folsom for the Section meet.

“Briana was all dialed in and ready last week. This week getting workouts in and staying focused was very hard,” explained head coach Rick Heflin. “We got there and the air (quality) was at a low enough level to run. Briana ran hard but was 10th overall and the sixth individual.”

Only five individuals qualify to move on to the state meet.

“It wasn’t the ending we wanted but being sixth in the section after ACL surgery last year is amazing,” Heflin said. “It was hard to get a feel of the race since there were three races on the course at one time and the girls started mixing with girls in the previous race. We had no idea what place she was in until they scored the race.”

The coach noted that just missing out on a trip to the state meet will likely make the athlete eager for a chance to go next year and work hard to get there.

“Briana wanted me to thank all the people that wished her well and cheered for her. She would hug all of you if she knew who you all were. That’s Briana,” Heflin said. “She is a very determined young lady and once she takes a short break from running, she will be back to training and improving her times.”

While the varsity races did go off, the decision was made to cancel the JV and frosh/soph races so the eight qualifiers for Escalon in those divisions did not have the chance to run.

“The cross country team would like to thank the Sports Boosters and the community for the huge amount of support we received this and every season,” Heflin said.