Laurel Highlands High School’s cross‑country program got an early preview of the course that will host the Pennsylvania state meet when the Mustangs competed in the Ben Bloser Bulldog Invitational at Big Spring High School in Newville. The invitation race offered both the boys’ and girls’ squads a chance to gauge the terrain, elevation changes, and footing that will challenge the state’s top runners later this season.
Girls’ team performance
Competing in the Class 2A division, the Mustangs’ girls finished 14th out of 26 schools. Senior Taylor Schwertfeger, who is aiming for a third straight appearance at the state meet, placed 26th overall (21st among teams) with a time of 21:14. Teammate Hannah Hertlein finished 52nd overall (44th among teams) in 22:20.6, while Vanessa Rosano crossed the line in 23:45.4. Freshman Mariah Macijczak ran the 5K in 23:52.3, Sophia Yauger posted 25:58, and Clara Cully recorded 28:10.4.
Boys’ team performance
The boys’ squad landed a 13th‑place team finish with 386 points. Sophomore Mason Mahoney led the pack, finishing 49th overall (46th among teams) in 17:58.4. Junior Noah Hudock placed 61st overall (58th among teams) in 18:17.7, and senior Ryan Filcheck was 78th overall (75th among teams) in 18:33.7. Sophomore Wil Skowronski broke the 19‑minute barrier, posting 18:58.5 for 93rd place (90th among teams). Freshman Carter Flinn was the Mustangs’ fifth finisher, recording 19:24.5 for 120th overall (117th among teams). Junior James Buckingham (21:07.9) and sophomore Logan Peck (21:34.6) rounded out the varsity finishers.
Why the new venue matters
For the first time in more than a quarter‑century, the state championships will move away from the historic course near Hersheypark. The shift reflects the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association’s effort to rotate venues, provide fresh challenges for athletes, and showcase different regions of the Commonwealth. By running the Bulldog Invitational, the Mustangs not only earned valuable race experience but also helped the host school fine‑tune the course layout ahead of the championship weekend.
Looking ahead
Coach Bob Costello praised his athletes’ effort and adaptability. “Running a new course early in the season gives our runners a chance to learn how to pace themselves on unfamiliar terrain,” he said. “We’re confident the experience will pay off when the state meet arrives.” The Mustangs will continue to train on local trails while incorporating hill repeats and speed work to sharpen their competitiveness for the upcoming state championship.
Fans and families are encouraged to attend the upcoming meets, support the student‑athletes, and celebrate the dedication of the Laurel Highlands cross‑country program. With a solid showing at the Bulldog Invitational, the Mustangs are poised to make a strong impression at the state level.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
