The Lumberjacks, ranked No. 7 in the first West Region poll released this week, made the quick turnaround from a long flight and drive endured Wednesday to earn the win over their hosts. Sophomore Eric Malain led a Jacks’ sweep of the first three positions, touring the 8K course in 27 minutes, 13.4 seconds.
“It was a long day (of travel), but we got up this morning and ran the course, and that woke everyone up,” HSU head coach Sandy Moran said. “They were more fresh this afternoon. They ran the race we wanted them to run.”
Malain finished just ahead of freshman teammate Andrew Sylvester, who was in the lead with 800 meters to go before finishing second in 27:16.7. Senior Jesus Solis placed third in 27.27.9, while Steve Kilroy (seventh) and Derek Lacteaon (ninth) filled out the scoring positions.
In the women’s competition, the hosts defeated the Lumberjacks, 24-31. Humboldt State’s top finisher was junior Megan Rolland in third place with a time of 24:16.1 on the 6K course.
Clare Nowell placed fourth in 25:07.0 and Irene Graham was fifth in 25:14.0. Tess Dahlgren, in ninth, and Sylvia Nicovich, 10th, rounded out the scoring for HSU.
“Megan ran a good race, and Clare and Irene ran well together,” Moran said. “Clare is really good at pacing, and that helped Irene. Tess has also improved a lot.”
HSU will enjoy an easy day of resting and perhaps exploring the local area Friday before going up against the Nanooks again at the BIrch Hill Invitational on Saturday. Both the women and men will run a 4K distance.
“Alaska Fairbanks has been incredibly welcoming to us,” Moran said. “They’ve been great hosts. Our runners have remarked several times how nice their athletes are and how much they’re enjoying the experience.”
For more athletics at HSU, visit the Jacks’ homepage.