RANGELY | The Rangely cross country team launched their season this past weekend with a spirited performance at the Boggy Draw Bear Chase Meet in Dolores, Colorado. With six boys and four girls, the team exhibited its youthful vitality and potential in a challenging meet. “For many, this was their first-ever meet, and our team’s youthful enthusiasm combined with potential holds great promise,” said Coach Beth Scoggins.
The event marked Dolores’s inaugural cross country meet at the Boggy Draw Bear Chase—a true cross country experience. The runners tackled a course entirely on dirt, navigating single tracks and steep hills, while traversing trees and rocks that tested them physically and mentally.
Kicking off the action were the girls, led by freshman Taya Wren, who finished impressively in 19th place with a time of 25:28. Following her, freshman Samantha Granger clocked in at 33:05. Macy Morgan, a senior, secured third place for the team with a time of 34:29. Courtney Casto, in her debut race, completed the course in 35:31. Coach Scoggins praised the girls’ grit, stating, “Their youth and heart shine through. Watching their growth over the next few years will be exciting.”
The boys’ race featured a team composition of one senior, one junior and four sophomores. James Talbot set the pace for the Panthers, finishing at 19:04 and securing sixth place overall. Sophomore Jay Valdez followed with a time of 21:37. Senior Justin Allred completed the course in 24:16. Lincoln Harris, a sophomore, marked his debut cross country race with a time of 26:06. Gage Nielsen, also a sophomore, crossed the finish line at 28:55, closely trailed by sophomore Matthew Morgan at 29:56. Coach Scoggins acknowledged the demanding course and the team’s commendable performance, stating, “We have areas to refine, but as the season unfolds, we’re poised to challenge other teams.”
Looking ahead, the Rangely cross country team is gearing up for the Basalt Longhorn Invitational on Aug. 26 at El Jebel Crown Mountain Park. As the middle school’s first meet as well, the excitement continues to build.
