Gibson breaks course record in Wyoming

By Mary Albl for DyeStat

SHERIDAN – For the first time in a long time, Anna Gibson was able to enjoy the Wyoming State Cross Country meet. Really enjoy it. RESULTS

Late Saturday morning at the V.A. Hospital Grounds, the Jackson Hole senior tore up the 5,000 meter course, crossing the finish line in a state record time of 17 minutes, 35.20 seconds to win the 4A individual title.

“It was super fun,” Gibson said with excitement in her voice.

After winning the 3A crown as a freshmen, Gibson battled through illness and injuries her sophomore and junior years. Saturday's victory was a satisfying stamp on a statement senior campaign.

“It's just really rewarding to finally have all the hard work I've put into it, finally pay off and in a really great way,” Gibson said.

Runner-up was Cheyenne Central junior Aubrey Frentheway, finishing in 18:02.93.

Gibson's win was just the start of what was an historic day for the Broncs. Freshmen Mattie Geddes captured fourth place, while seniors Abbie Brazil and Andie Cornish were ninth and 11th. Jackson placed all seven runners in the top 25 to score 46 points and edge out Laramie (54). It is the first 4A state title for the school. Jackson came in winners of the last two 3A state titles.

“Moving to 4A was fun,” Gibson said. “We didn't know the girls in that race and how they run. It's also really exciting just for our school, that was our first official 4A title and to kind of show 4A what's up.”

Gibson will now prepare for the Nike Cross Northwest Regional meet on Nov. 12 in Eagle, Idaho.

“I feel great, more in shape than I've ever been in,” Gibson said. “I just can't wait for hopefully two more races I'll be doing this season.”

In the boys 4A race, Laramie scored 63 points to win the program's fifth straight state title. Laramie junior Philip Henry led the impressive charge, winning in a time of 15:52.05. Laramie placed three in the top 10 and four runners in the top 20 to beat out runner-up Kelly Walsh (75).

In 3A girls action, Mountain View senior Hannah Behunin won in a convincing time of 18:51.23. Jules Ward of Thermopolis finished second in 19:17.92.

Star Valley scored 58 points to capture the team crown.

In boys 3A action, it was all Star Valley. Junior Shane Henderson was the first to cross the line in 16:00.39. Teammates Asefa Wetzel and Wesley Kallgren went 2-3. Star Valley dominated, as five placed in the top 10 and all seven in the top 15 to tally 19 points to win the program's fifth consecutive state title.

In 2A girls, Pine Bluffs claimed its seventh straight team title scoring 33 points. Moorcroft's Hailey Jones was the top finisher, running 20:20.91.

In the boys' race, Saratoga/Encampment halted Wyoming Indians' big for a 10th straight crown. Freshmen Reid Schcoeder captured first place in 17:39.69, while teammate Jeremy Detterer was second (17:50.84). Saratoga scored 24 points and placed four runners in the top 10. Wyoming Indian was runner-up (68).