West Aurora edges Waubonsie for city title
Waubonsie Valley junior Ashley Bruner expected her top challenge to come from West Aurora on Saturday at the Aurora City Meet.
The person providing that challenge proved to be a surprise.
Bruner came from behind in the final 100 meters to overtake West Aurora freshman Miranda Gollwitzer, who dazzled in her first race for the Blackhawks.
“Miranda, I had no idea she was here this year,” Bruner said. “I was only counting on returning people. She was a great competitor. When she kicked I tried really hard to go with her.”
Bruner covered the course in 19:31.7 to beat Gollwitzer’s 19:35. Waubonsie Valley teammate Kristina Chapman placed third in 20:07.
Bruner, who took second in this race last year, had her eye on Chapman and last year’s winner from West Aurora Rachel Cavender (sixth place, 20:22).
“I knew Rachel Cavender, I had my sights set on her,” Bruner said. “This was a great way to start. I was hoping to beat Rachel this year. I beat my time from last year so I’m really happy.”
Gollwitzer also was happy about her impressive high school debut.
“It was pretty exciting,” Gollwitzer said. “I felt really good out there. I’m just glad I did well for my first race.”
Gollwitzer said she had a simple goal.
“I just hoped I would do good and not die out there,” she said. “My legs felt ready to give out. First race and new and first time racing three miles. I just didn’t know what to expect or how to pace myself through it.”
Gollwitzer’s runner-up finish helped West Aurora hold off Waubonsie Valley for the team title, 42-50. Just as important was the Blackhawks’ fifth runner Claire Loran who came in 14th — 10 spots ahead of Waubonsie Valley’s fifth runner.
Others in the top five for West Aurora included Cavender, Nicky Bartlett (eighth) and Jazmin Zepeda (13th). Alejandra Rios finished 18th.
Lauren Newmyer took 10th for the Warriors.
Aurora Central edged Aurora Christian for third place, 89-92. Jenna Koerner led the Chargers in seventh while Sarina Oleson (sixth) and freshman Becca Wert (ninth) both ran in the top 10 for the Eagles.
Rosary’s Kara Kalisz, Helen Offerman and Melissa Lifka came in as a pack in 15th, 16th and 17th.
“First one never know what to expect,” said Rosary coach Vic Meade who praised his sophomore team’s effort earlier in the day. “It’s just a day to see how people are doing.”