MXC: Victoria finishes on top of Vikes open
Braedan Willis, Vikes Communications
VICTORIA- The University of Victoria Vikes men’s cross country team finished first overall in the team standings of the 10K race at the Vikes Invitational on Oct.13 at Beacon Hill Park, topping their rivals from UBC and Trinity Western.
Alex Nemethy was the top Vike on the day, finishing in fifth place with a time of 32:39. He was followed closely by three more of his Vikes teammates, Derrick Evans, Joshua Kozelj, Jonathan Toombs and Ben Weir who finished sixth through to eighth. Having four runners finish in the top ten gave the Vikes the times they needed to secure first place in the team standings.
“The team was quick off the start and we kept up our pace throughout the race,” said Nemethy. “ As a group I thought we all stayed mentally focused and with solid speed through the first four kilometres we were able to finish the race on top.”
Nemethy found himself in the second and third positions through out the race before ultimately finishing in fifth.
“I know with my fitness I am able to keep up with the leaders,” commented Nemethy. “With the training will we be doing over the next month in preparation for nationals I know I will be able to stay at the front of the pack. I will need to make a few adjustments but I am confident going into my next couple races.”
The Vikes’ depth showed in this race with four runners finishing in the top ten and Ben Weir (33:30), Brendan Hoff (33:40), Mitchell Basher (34:24) and Chet Goerzen (35:33) all finishing in the top 26.
“It was an awesome display of team work today,” said Vikes head coach Brent Fougner. “They learned from their last race, packed up well, followed the game play and ultimately came through with the victory.”
Jackson Bocksnick had the best time in the men’s 8K race posting a time of 27:06.
The Vikes will compete at the B.C. Championships in Abbotsford on Oct.27 before heading to the U SPORTS National Championships in Kingston on Nov. 10.
Results (Men’s 10K)
1st- VICTORIA
5 – Alex Nemethy (32:39)
6 – Derrick Evans (32:46)
7 – Joshua Kozelj (32:53)
8 – Jonathan Toombs (33:03)
14 - Ben Weir (33:30)
16 - Brendan Hoff (33:40)
21 - Mitchell Basher (34:24)
26 - Chet Goerzen (35:33)
Results (Men’s 8K)
1 – Jackson Bocksnick (27:06)
3 – Gabe Van Hezewijk (27:25)
4 – Sam Wetzel (27:44)
8 – Derrick Ushko (28:08)
11 – Ross Henderson (28:52)
13 – Vladyslav Lyesin (29:00)
17 – Owen Wright (30:09)