Cobleskill, NY - "This were exactly the kinds of races I wanted to see from this group," said Head Coach Samson Dikeman. "We know that challenging courses and strong competition will help get us where we want to be, but those types of races require us to race smart. I saw that out there consistently today."

The women kicked off festivities at the Steven A. Warde Invite at SUNY Cobleskill, in the 6k. Freshman Ophelia Breen (Peru, NY) proved that she was unphased by the longer distance clocking a time of 26:27, good for 5^th place overall. Junior Kayleigh Simpson (Utica, NY) finished next for the Panthers with an impressive performance across the hilly course for a 28^th overall finish. Krystal Ogoke (Bowie, MD) made her 6k debut with a veteran-like aplomb, finishing 31st. Giselle Campbell (Syracuse, NY) rounded out the Panther women, turning in a gutsy performance good for 33^rd .  The hosts, SUNY Cobleskill won the women's race with 20 points.

On the men's side, many Panthers turned in course PRs. Tyler Buffolino (Ridge, NY) improved by 5 minutes over his previous performance at Cobleskill, leading the men in a time of 32:57 across 8000m. Harrison Matthews (Peru, NY) was 2^nd for the Panthers finishing 2 minutes faster than his previous best on the course. Matthew Shakow (Saratoga, NY) finished next, debuting on the course finishing 32^nd overall. Kevin Andrews (Buffalo, NY) and Andy Tran (Vietnam) rounded out the scoring with course improvements of 1 minute, and 4 minutes respectively. Daniel Le (Guam), and David Martin (Babylon, NY) bolstered the squad finishing he course in 41st, and 48^th .  


A final note on the proceedings: This was Assistant Coach, Bruin Smith's final meet coaching at ACPHS. Coach Smith will be moving on to a new opportunity with his alma-mater Colby Sawyer. The Panther XC teams wish Coach Smith the best of luck in his new position. His influence on the team and his support of the athletes was unmatched, and his legacy will be the love and support he offered past and present athletes.  We will be sad to see him go, but we know and we expect that he will thrive in his new position.

Women's Results: Women 6000m - Steven A Warde Invitational - Sep 7, 2024 | IC4A Track
Men's Results: Men 8000m - Steven A Warde Invitational - Sep 7, 2024 | IC4A Track

How to follow the Panthers: For the latest information on ACPHS athletics, visit acphspanthers.com or check out the ACPHS athletics social media platforms on Instagram @ACPHSPanthers or Twitter @ACPHSAthletics.