Toro Park Short Course Invitational September 4, 2009

The 2009 Hartnell College cross country started the season with wins in both the men's and women's divisions at the Toro Park Short Course Challenge. Shorter versions of the traditional courses at Toro Park were run as an early season test. The women competed over a 2.4 mile version with the men tackling a 3 miles course. Several community college teams from Northern California attended as well as NAIA 4 year institution Bethany College of Scotts Valley along with Cuesta College of San Luis Obispo.



Top 7 women's finishers (missing one runner from Cuesta College)


In the women's race, Shannon Peters of Modesto Junior College edged out local standout Sused Cabrera. Peters was timed in 16:48 with Cabrera at 16:52. Cabrera, who prepped at North Salinas High School, has consistently demonstrated her ability in practice to lead the 2009 team despite being a freshman. The Panthers outdistanced MJC with a team score of 25 to 44 points. Cuesta was third with 60 points,and Bethany College fourth at 99. West Valley College and San Jose City College field non-scoring teams. Following Cabrera were Ellie Herrera (3rd), Leticia Saldana (4th), Priscilla Meza (7th), Jazmin Suarez (9th), Emilse Tapia (12th), Mayra Garcia (13th), and Emily Scettrini (18th).


Lady Panthers take the win at the first annual Toro Park Short Course.

Next up for the Panthers is the Fresno Invitational next Saturday. The Fresno Invitational attracts many of the best teams across the state and will provide a state championships preview of the course at Woodward Park.