Two Bronc runners have spent their off-season training and competing in races.
Rhys Pearson and Lennon Clarkson have been racing in open events at South Dakota State University, Chadron State College, as well as the Heartland Nike Cross Nationals races during the winter season between cross country and track seasons.
Individuals are able to run unattached as individuals in the open races hosted at these colleges and events.
In November the duo traveled to Sioux Falls for the Nike Cross National race, known as the NXR, Heartland Region, held at Yankton Trail Park. Pearson competed in the Rising Stars (for Sophomores and younger) race finishing 19th out of 177 runners.
Clarkson missed running in the championship race by 1 second but was able to run in the Open race. In his section he placed 24th out of 443 runners. The race was held on a blistering cold, snowy day with a real feel of 5 degrees making it less than ideal running conditions for an outdoor race.
Coach Brit Clarkson who accompanied the runners stated, “There were some outstanding performances despite the weather. I am so proud of these two for showing their grit and their commitment to continue their training (after the cross country season ended)”.
In January Pearson and Clarkson traveled to Chadron, Nebraska for an indoor event at Chadron State College.
Both runners competed in the mile run on a flat 180 meter track. Pearson ran a time of 5:22 in the ladies division and Clarkson ran a time of 4:48 in the men’s division.
Coach Brit stated, “These are some great January times. Both have been putting in some work this winter!” expressing that track season is just one month away from the time of this event.
In early February Rhys Pearson travelled to SDSU in Brookings where she competed in the mile with a time of 5:27 and in the 800 meter run with a time of 2:22 and a 6th place finish in her heat.
Next up for Pearson and Clarkson is high school track season beginning competitions late March.
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