Foot Locker Nationals: A Feat Maine has Never Seen

        As a fan of high school running, I'm disappointed. As an aspiring journalist, I feel guilty, which is why right now, as I sit here barely unpacking my things from my latest class, I'm writing an emergency article on the most prestigious high school cross country meet in America. A combined eighty of the best runners in the country will lace up their spikes one last time in San Diego, California to decide who the best male and female runners in the country are. Three of these fortunate and amazing athletes happen to hail from Maine. 

One of the smallest states in the country. 

Yet, as I sit here angrily, searching the sports section of local newspapers, there have been few articles on the prominence of this rare feat. Tomorrow, Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely, Josef Holt of Telstar and Dan Curts of Ellsworth will all compete tomorrow in San Diego. Each of these runners managed to qualify for the Nationals after all placing in the top ten of their perspective races at the Footlocker Northeast Regional at Van Cortland Park in New York. Only twelve runners from Maine have ever qualified for Footlocker Nationals with Loui Luchini from Ellsworth, Ben True of Greely and Abbey Leonardi from Kennebunk all having made it twice. This year, Maine will have the most representatives its ever had. This feat tops a basketball player scoring forty points against a Class A team. It's more impressive than receiving All-American honors in Lacrosse. It's more prominent than winning the Fitzpatrick Award in Football. Which is why, with one day before the meet, I'm disgruntled by the lack of media coverage from local newspapers and media sources around the state.

A trip to San Diego was the icing on top of the brilliant career for Kirstin Sandreuter. She was far and away the most dominant runner in the state this fall. She took off from the start of the Class B state meet and dared anybody to run with her as she won her first cross country title by over a minute. At the New England Championships in Manchester, NH, she placed fourth running a personal best of 17 minutes, 48.6 seconds while earning All-New England honors in the process. At the Footlocker Regional's in New York, she captured the final position to qualify for Nationals as she placed tenth. Ten years ago, a fellow Greely Ranger qualified for Footlocker Nationals at the same meet. 

His name is Ben True

For Holt and Curts, top ten finishes from them were almost expected. That's how talented both of these runners are. Holt has been on a tear all season. He set the course record at the Festival of Champions running an incomprehensible time of 15 minutes, 6.92 seconds. His lone loss against Maine competition came at the Manchester Invitational where the aforementioned Curts edged Holt by four seconds. Both of them ran some of the fastest times that course had seen back in late September. In early November, Holt ran with the top runners in New England as he placed third at the New England Championships lowering his time at Manchester to 15:12.9, a time that even Ben True couldn't match during his senior season back in 2003. To qualify for Nationals, Holt placed fifth at the Regional's running 15:36.8. With his small town fame, and front running ability, comparisons to current Purdue star Matt McClintock have become inevitable. McClintock enjoyed the same success Holt has had this year. McClintock placed fifteenth at Nationals in 2011 earning the final All-American spot. Holt will be looking to better his performance tomorrow.


For Curts, he hasn't had the smooth ride Holt has enjoyed. He tore his hamstring at the Festival of Champions and was sidelined for nearly a month. He mustered up the courage to win the Class B state championships at Twinbrook's running the fastest time of all classes, 16 minutes, 9 seconds. With few speed workouts under his belt, he was still able to place sixth at the Footlocker Regional's running right behind Holt in 15:38.7. He will be looking to replicate the success that his current assistant coach Loui Luchini had at Nationals. In 1998, Luchini placed second to Jorge Torres. His place is the highest a Maine native has finished at Nationals. Curts may not have the ability to place second, but an All-American finish (Top 15) will be in his sights.

Tomorrow morning, these three amazing athletes will all toe the line for the final cross country race of their careers along with the best runners in the country. The girls race will start at 9:15 am Pacific time with boys race starting forty five minutes after. They have already cemented their abilities in the great history of Maine cross country, and will look to compare their talents against the best in a race that Olympians such as Kara Goucher, Galen Rupp, Dathan Ritzenhein, and Alan Webb have competed in. 



(Editors Note: I'd like to give a huge shout out to Derek Veilleux and his efforts with Milesplit. He has given me the rare opportunity to have some of my writing published on the site. As far as I know, Maine's Milesplit affiliate is the only source in the state that has generated buzz about this historic feat)

The David Cheney Award

(Previously the Jack Kelly Award)
Previous Winners
2012: Dan Curts Ellsworth
2011: Matt McClintock Madison
2010: Silas Eastman Fryeburg


The David Cheney Award is given annually to the top male runner in the state.

Words can not describe how great of a person, friend and brother Dave Cheney was. His life was cut short on November 16, 2012 in a plane accident in Owls Head, Maine. He was a person who could make you laugh until you're in tears. He was a person that you could depend on. He accomplished more in 22 years than many will in their lifetime. As great of a person he was, he may have been an even better leader. As the president of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity at the University of Maine, he worked daily to better the efforts of everyone around him. He was the ultimate "people person". He was never afraid to say what he thought even if it came off as offensive. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest people I've ever met in my life. 



Josef Holt Telstar

SB: 15:06.92
Holt had a season for the ages this fall, and he isn't done yet. Right from the start of the season, we could tell he was a man on a mission. His lone loss of the regular season came at the Manchester Invitational where he placed second to Dan Curts running a spectacular time of 15:27, just four seconds behind Curts. He followed up that performance with one of the most legendary displays of running Maine has ever seen as he smoked the course record at Belfast running 15:06.92. He cruised at the Class C state meet as he ran 17:00.87. Last week at the New England Championships, Holt placed third running an amazing time of 15:12.9 at Derryfield Park in Manchester setting a new Maine record for fastest time on that course (Ben True ran 15:17 his senior year). Holt is favored to get a spot in the top ten at Footlocker Northeast, and make a bid at All-American at Nationals. 


2. Dan Curts Ellsworth
SB: 15:23
Before his hamstring injury, Curts (not Holt) was the top runner in the state. After weeks of rehabbing his injury, he clocked the fastest time of all classes at the state meet in 16:09.22. If he's healthy, expect Curts to challenge for a top ten finish at Footlocker Northeast.

3. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
SB: 15:54.21
Horne captured his first individual state title this year at Twinbrooks running a time of 16:43.79. He won the Eastern A Regional title at Belfast running 16:12.94. Look for Horne to run some fast times on the track this year. 

4. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
SB: 15:45.1
Simspon was the top runner in the WMC this year as we saw him place second at the state meet running a fast time of 16:19. He just missed running sub 16 at Festival of Champions clocking 16:00.08. However, at New Englands, Simspon had a spectacular performance as he placed 8th running a life time best of 15:45.1

5. Will Shafer Gray New Gloucester
SB: 15:53.6
This was a tough decision between Shafer, Brayden Beardsley and Isaiah Harris. At the end of the day, Shafer had a better body of work this season. He placed fourth in Class B running a time of 16:32.00. At the New England Championships, Shafer placed 17th running a life time best of 15:53.6. Expect him to run some really fast times on the track this year. 

Boys Individual Rankings Week 9

1. Josef Holt Andrews Telstar

Pre: 1 Meet: States Place: 1st Class C Time: 17:00.87
Holt-Andrews won his elusive first state title as he took it easy running a time of 17:00.87. His real season starts now as he looks to win the New England title and move towards clinching a spot at Footlocker Nationals.

2. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 2 Meet: States Place: 1st Class B Time: 16:09.22
Curts pulled away from Liam Simpson on Saturday as he cruised to the fastest time of all classes running 16:09.22. Rumor has it he may not run at New Englands in order to prepare for Footlocker Regionals. If he chooses to race, expect him to challenge Holt-Andrews this Saturday.

3. Josh Horne Mt. Blue

Pre: 3 Meet: States Place: 1st Class A Time: 16:43.79
Horne took the lead at the first mile and didn't look back as he went out in style winning the Class A state title his senior year. Look for Horne to challenge for a top ten finish at the New England Championships on Saturday.

4. Liam Simspon Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 4 Meet: States Place: 2nd Class B Time: 16:19.45
Simpson placed second to Dan Curts as he ran the second fastest time of all classes stopping the clock at 16:19.45. Look for Simspon to challenge for a top ten finish at New Englands.

5. Brayden Beardsley Ellsworth
Pre: 8 Meet: States Place: 3rd Class B Time: 16:26.79
Beardsley capped off a brilliant senior season on Saturday as he placed third running a fast time of 16:26.79. A top 25 finish at New Englands would be the icing on the cake for him.

6. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 5 Meet: States Place: 4th Class B Time: 16:32.00
Shafer placed fourth in Class B as he ran a fast time of 16:32 lowering his personal best at Twin Brooks. Look for him to challenge for a top 25 finish at New Englands.

7. Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 10 Meet: States Place: 5th Class B Time: 16:37.64
Doane continued his late season surge as he placed fifth in Class B running a fast time of 16:37.64. A top 25 performance at New Englands could be in store for Doane as he hopes to lead Cape to a top finish.

8. Isaiah Harris Lewiston
Pre: UR Meet: States Place: 2nd Class A Time: 17:01.27
Harris used his excellent track speed to out kicked Caleb Lord of Hampden for the runner up spot in Class A as he posted a time of 17:01.27. Look for Harris to challenge for a top 30 finish at New Englands.

9. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: UR Meet: States Place: 6th Class B Time: 16:54.28
Decker had a very impressive sixth place showing considering the fact he hasn't been running much due to his soccer schedule. If Yarmouth beats Greely this Wednesday, Decker won't likely race on Saturday.

10. Caleb Lord Hampden Academy
Pre: UR Meet: States Place: 3rd Class A Time: 17:01.93
Lord placed third in Class A as he was out kicked by Isaiah Harris. He ran a very solid time of 17:01.93. Look for Lord to challenge for a top 40 finish at New Englands.

Runner of the Week: Dan Curts Ellsworth

Runners Knocking: Robert Looker Ellsworth, Mitch Morris Cape, Mohamed Awil Lewiston, Chris Cote Waterville, Chandler Vincent Freeport, Jonathan Stanhope Bangor, ben Trapani Camden Hills

Boys Individual Rankings Week 8

1. Josef Holt-Andrews Telstar

Pre: 1 Meet: WMR Class C Place: 1st Time: 15:54.75
Holt-Andrews never made a sub 16 performance look so easy like he did on Saturday as he cruised to the fastest time of the day running 15:54.75. A state title is definitely in the works for him, but I'm sure he'd also like to have the course record at Twin Brooks as well. 

2. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 2 Meet: EMR Class B Place: 1st Time: 16:00.95
Curts looked like he had no ill-effects from his time off as he cruised to a time of 16:00.95 at the Eastern B regional. Curts looks poised to win another state title as well as a sub 16 performance this weekend.

3. Josh Horne Mt. Blue

Pre: 3 Meet: EMR Class A Place: 1st Time: 16:12.94
Horne outdistanced himself from Jonathan Stanhope of Bangor as he ran the third fastest time of the day winning the Eatern A regional in a time of 16:12.94. He's the favorite to win his first Class A state title on Saturday.

4. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 6 Meet: WMR Class B Place: 1st Time: 16:15.92
Simspon pulled away from Will Shafer to run an impressive time of 16:15.92 on the historically tough Twin Brooks course. With Curts likely to set a fast pace, look for Simpson to bring his time down to the low 16's depending on the weather.

5. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 5 Meet: WMR Class B Place: 2nd Time: 16:36.93
Shafer was the runner up at the Western B regional as he ran a lifetime best at Twin Brooks by over a minute. Shafer will be out for revenge against Simpson in what could be an epic battle for second place in Class B on Saturday.

6. Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy
Pre: 7 Meet: WMR Class A Place: 1st Time: 17:00.60
Here's an interesting fact: besides Holt-Andrews, Ryan Cadorette is the only other runner in the state who is undefeated thus far. He showed why he is a huge threat to win the Class A title as he pulled away from the field to come out with a three second victory over Colin Tardiff of Scarborough. 

7. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Pre: 4 Meet: EMR Class A Place: 14th Time: 16:59.43
Willingham had a rare off day on Saturday as he placed 14th running a time of 16:59.43. Expect Willingham to bounce back and challenge for the state title in Class A. 

8. Brayden Beardsley Ellsworth
Pre: UR Meet: EMR Class B Place: 2nd Time: 16:03.29
Beardsley cracks into the top ten after having the race of his life on Saturday as he placed second to teammate Dan Curts running a spectacular time of 16:03.29. His time was the second fastest of all classes. Look for him to challenge for a top five finish on Saturday.

9. Jonathan Stanhope Bangor
Pre: UR Meet: EMR Class A Place: 2nd Time: 16:19.21
Stanhope ran his best race of the season on Saturday as he clocked in the fourth fastest time of all classes running a time of 16:19.21. Look for Stanhope to contend for a top five finish this Saturday.

10. Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth
Pre: UR Meet: WMR Class B Place: 3rd Time: 16:37.87
Doane's emergence this post season has been truly amazing to watch. His confidence seems to be sky high after his third place finish at Twin Brooks as he ran a fast time of 16:37.87. Look for him to keep this momentum going as he hopes to challenge for a top five finish this Saturday.

Runner of the Week: Brayden Beardsley Ellsworth

Runners Knocking: Ben Decker Yarmouth, Braden Becker Yarmouth, Colin Tardiff Scarborough, Ben Trapani Camden Hills, Michael Aboud Massabesic, Matt Malcom NYA, Ben Allen Winthrop, Jesse Southard Gorham, Isaiah Harris Lewiston, Bryce Murdick Falmouth 

Boys Individual Rankings Week 7

1. Josef Holt-Andrews Telstar

Pre: 1 Meet: MVC Championships Place: 1st Time: 17:14
Holt-Andrews took it easy at the MVC Championships as he cruised to a twenty second victory running a time of 17:14. If the weather is up to par, a sub 16 performance at Twinbrooks at the Western Regionals could very well be possible.

2. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 2 Meet: PVC Championships Place: Idle Time: Idle
Curts was still nursing his hamstring last weekend as he watched his teammates take home the team victory. Hopefully Curts will be able to go on Saturday and run a fast time.

3. Josh Horne Mt. Blue

Pre: 4 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 1st Time: 17:05.40
Horne outkicked Caleb Lord of Hampden, and his teammate Willingham to place first at the KVAC Championships running a time of 17:05.40. Expect him to run a fast time of the Eastern A Regionals this Saturday.

4. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Pre: 3 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 3rd Time: 17:07.80
Willingham placed third at the KVAC Championships as he ran a good time of 17:07.8. Look for Willingham to try and get the better of his teammate this weekend at the Eastern A Regionals.

5. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 6 Meet: WMC Championships Place: 1st Time: 16:26
Shafer used his stellar track speed to pull away from Liam Simpson to take home the victory in 16:26 at the WMC Championships. Look for Shafer to contend for the win at the Western B Regionals this Saturday.

6. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 5 Meet: WMC Championships Place: 2nd Time: 16:34
Simpson placed second to Shafer at the WMC Championships as he ran a fast time of 16:34. Look for Simspon to challenge Shafer again at the Western B Regionals.

7. Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy
Pre: 9 Meet: at Westbrook Place: 1st Time: 16:32
The top runner in the SMAA took home another victory as he cruised to a fast time of 16:32 at Westbrook. He's the favorite going into the Western A Regionals.

8. Ben Trapani Camden Hills
Pre: 7 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 1st Class B Time: 17:17.5
Trapani was the top class B finisher at the KVAC Championships as he ran a solid time of 17:17.5 Look for Trapani to run a fast time at the Eastern B Regionals.

9. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: 8 Meet: WMC Championships Place: DNR Time: DNR
Decker didn't compete at the WMC Championships last Friday. Hopefully we will get to see him run once more this season.

10. Caleb Lord Hampden Academy
Pre: UR Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 2nd Time: 17:07.l
Lord placed second at the KVAC Championships running a time of 17:07.1. Look for Lord to contend for a top three finish at the Eastern A Regionals this Saturday.

Runner of the Week: Will Shafer GNG

Runners Knocking: Jonathan Stanhope Bangor, Peter Doane Cape, Isaiah Harris Lewiston, Chris Cote Waterville, Brayden Beardsley Ellsworth, Bryce Murdick Falmouth

Boys Individual Rankings Week 6

1. Josef Holt Andrews Telstar

Pre: 1 Meet: Idle Place: Idle Time: Idle
Holt-Andrews is in the middle of one of the most dominant seasons Maine has ever seen. Look for him to win easily at the MVC Championships this Saturday.

2. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 2 Meet: Hancock CC Place: Idle Time: Idle
Curts, like Holt-Andrews, has been on a tear this fall. Hopefully he's back at 100 percent when Ellsworth races at the PVC Championships on Saturday.

3. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue

Pre: 3 Meet: Mt. Blue Relays Place: 1st Time: 10:32 cr
Willingham continues to break records this season as he cruised to a record time of 10:32 at the Mt. Blue Relays. It took five seconds off Kelton Cullenberg's record back in 2009. Willingham is the heavy favorite going into the KVAC Championships.

4. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Pre: 4 Meet: Mt. Blue Relays Place: 2nd Time: 10:39
Horne placed second at the Mt. Blue Relays as he ran the third fastest time in course history in 10:39. Horne will be gunning for his teammate at the KVAC Championships this Saturday.

5. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 5 Meet: Idle Place: Idle Time: Idle
Simspon has been the top runner in the WMC this fall and will get his chance to prove it at the Conference Championship's this Friday. Expect him to be challenged by Ben Decker if Decker races.

6. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 7 Meet: at Greely Place: 3rd Time: 17:29
Shafer used his meet at Greely as a tempo run as he cruised to a fine time of 17:29 on the historically tough Twinbrooks course. Look for Shafer to challenge for the win at the WMC Championships this Friday.

7. Ben Trapani Camden Hills
Pre: 8 Meet: Camden Hills Invitational Place: 1st Time: 17:12.17
Trapani picked up another win amongst his fine season as he cruised to a time of 17:12.17 on his home course. He's the heavy favorite to win the Class B race at the KVAC Championships on Saturday.

8. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: 6 Meet: Idle Place: Idle Time: Idle
Yarmouth soccer is off this Friday which means Ben Decker will most likely compete at the WMC Championships. Look for him to challenge Simpson and Shafer for the win on Friday.

9. Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy
Pre: 9 Meet: at Gorham Place: 1st Time: 15:50
Cadorette has been the top runner in the SMAA this fall and he proved it once again last Friday as he pulled out a six second victory over Jesse Southard running a time of 15:50. Thornton heads to Westbrook on Friday where he should win easily.

10. Braden Becker Yarmouth
Pre: UR Meet: Idle Place: Idle Time: Idle
Becker has been one of the most consistent runners in the WMC this fall. Look for him to challenge for a top five finish at the conference championships this Friday.

Runner of the Week: Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue

Runners Knocking: Isaiah Harris Lewiston, Jesse Southard Gorham, Bryce Murdick Falmouth, Robert Looker Ellsworth, Mohamed Awil Lewiston, Brayden Beardsley Ellsworth, Colin Tardiff Scarborough, Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth, Jon Stanhope Bangor, Chris Cote Waterville

Boys Individual Rankings Week 5

1. Josef Holt Andrews Telstar

Pre: 2 Meet: FOC Place: 1st Time: 15:06.92
Holt Andrews reclaims the number one position after his legendary performance at the Festival of Champions as he ran a course record time of 15:06.92. Look for him to continue to roll as the post season comes along.

2. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 1 Meet: FOC Place: DNF Time: DNF
Hamstring issues caused Dan Curts to drop out midway through the race. Hopefully it's nothing major as the post season comes along. He is still the heavy favorite to defend his Class B championship.

3. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue

Pre: 4 Meet: FOC Place: 2nd Time: 15:42.11
Willingham just nipped Kelton Cullenberg's school record of 15:44 on Saturday to run 15:42.11. He was second overall. Look for him to run a fast time on his home course at the Mt. Blue Relays on Friday.

4. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Pre: 10 Meet: FOC Place: 3rd Time: 15:54.21
Horne was the second Mt. Blue runner to clock in under 16 minutes on Saturday as he placed third overall. Look for him to challenge his teammate Willingham at the Mt. Blue Relays on Friday.

5. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 7 Meet: FOC Place: 5th Time: 16:00.08
Simpson was less than a second away from break the elusive 16 minute barrier as he placed fifth. He was the first Class B finisher. Look for Simspon to run a fast time a Kennebunk on Friday.

6. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: 3 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Due to his soccer schedule, Decker was unable to make the Festival of Champions. Hopefully we will see him run again this year. Despite this, he is still one of the favorites in Class B no matter what.

7. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 5 Meet: FOC Place: 6th Time: 16:07.91
Shafer had his first real competition on Saturday and didn't disappoint as he placed sixth running a personal best of 16:07.91. Look for him to run a fast time at Greely on Friday.

8. Ben Trapani Camden Hills
Pre: 6 Meet: FOC Place: 7th Time: 16:20.81
Trapani was the third KVAC runner to cross the line on Saturday as he ran a life time best of 16:20.81. Look for him to challenge the dynamic duo of Mt. Blue on Friday when Camden heads to the Mt. Blue Relays.

9. Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy
Pre: 9 Meet: Dogs Day Invitational Place: 1st Time: 16:00
Cadorette cruised to an easy win on his home course as he ran  a fast time of 16:00. Thornton heads to Gorham on Friday where Cadorette will face off against Jesse Southard.

10. Isaiah Harris Lewiston
Pre: UR Meet: FOC Place: 8th Time: 16:21.70
Harris always seems to run great in big meets, and he proved it once again as he placed tenth overall running a lifetime best of 16:21.70. Look for Harris to challenge for a top three finish at the Mt. Blue Relays.

Runner of the Week: Josef Holt Andrews

Runners Knocking: Braden Becker Yarmouth, Bryce Murdick Falmouth, Robert Looker Ellsworth, Mohamed Awil Lewiston, Brayden Beardsley Ellsworth, Colin Tardiff Scarborough, Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth, Jon Stanhope Bangor, Chris Cote Waterville

Boys Individual Rankings Week 4

1. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 2 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 1st Time: 15:23
Curts defended his Manchester Invitational win in an epic race between Josef Holt-Andrews. His time of 15:23 was only six seconds off of Ben Trues course record of 15:17. His performance indicates he's ready to run a course record at Belfast. If the forecast is up to par, a sub 15:20 performance for Curts is definitely possible.

2. Josef Holt-Andrews Telstar

Pre: 1 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 2nd Time: 15:27
A very impressive tidbit about Holt-Andrew's performance on Saturday was that he raced in the MVC preview on Wednesday running a time of 17:24. Holt-Andrews was right behind Dan Curts running a spectacular time of 15:27. A sub 15:20 performance from him wouldn't surprise me as well.

3. Ben Decker Yarmouth

Pre: 4 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 4th Time: 16:07

Decker showed what kind of athlete he truly is as he ran a personal best time of 16:07 the morning after an intense soccer game that went into overtime against Cape Elizabeth. With the weather looking bright, a sub 16 effort from him could definitely be in the cards at FOC.

4. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Pre: 10 Meet: at Brunswick Place: 1st Time: 15:54
Willingham defeated some of his top competitors in the KVAC as he ran a very fast time of 15:54. To put his time in perspective, Will Geoghegan ran 15:52 on that course his senior year. Look for Willingham to contend for a top five finish at FOC.
5. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 5 Meet: at GNG Place: 1st Time: 17:13
Shafer clocked an impressive 17:13 on one of the toughest courses in the state in Libby Hill. He's incredibly fit right now and threat at a top five finish at the Festival of Champions.
6. Ben Trapani Camden Hills
Pre: 3 Meet: at Cony Place: N/a Time: N/A
Trapani get his first rest week of the season, and it couldn't have come at a better time. With a rested Trapani, look for him to challenge for a top three or five finish at FOC. A sub 16 effort could very well be possible for him.

7. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 9 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 9th (elite race) Time: 16:13
Simpson ran a lifetime best of 16:13 at the Manchester Invitational as he placed ninth overall in the elite race. Look for Simpson to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

8. Braden Becker Yarmouth
Pre: 9 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 5th (small school) Time: 16:21
Becker ran for an impressive fifth place finish in the small schools race as he clocked a lifetime best of 16:21. Look for Becker to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

9. Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy
Pre: 7 Meet: at Marshwood Place: 1st Time: 18:01
Cadorette was victorious once again as he placed first at Marshwood running a solid time of 18:01. Marshwood has one of the toughest courses in the state. Look for Cadorette to contend for a top ten finish at FOC.

10. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Pre: 5 Meet: at Brunswick Place: 2nd Time: 16:24
Horne placed second to his teammate Aaron Willingham running a strong time of 16:24 at Brunswick. Look for Horne to contend for a top ten finish at FOC.

Runner of the Week: Dan Curts Ellsworth

Runners Knocking: Jonathan Stanhope Bangor, Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth, Sam Wood Mt. Ararat, Nate MacKenzie Mt. Ararat, Logan Moses Messalonskee, Colin Tardiff Scarborough, Nate Skvorak Windham, Caleb Lord Hampden, Bryce Murdick Falmouth

Boys Individual Rankings Week 3

1. Josef Holt Telstar
Pre: 2 Meet: at Carrebec Place: 1st Time: 15:21

Holt's 15:21 performance at Carrebec earns him the number one spot this week. To put his performance in perspective, Footlocker All-American Matt McClintock ran 15:38 on the same course two years ago. Look for Holt to contend for the win at the Manchester Invitational this Saturday.

2. Dan Curts Ellsworth
Pre: 1 Meet: at GSA Place: 1st Time: 16:43

Curts ran with his pack of teammates as he notched another victory at GSA running a solid time of 16:43. Look for Curts to contend for the win at the Manchester Invitational this Saturday.

3. Ben Trapani Camden Hills
Pre: 3 Meet: at Medomak Valley Place: 1st Time: 17:00

Trapani made it look easy at Medomak Valley as he scorched the competition winning by nearly a minute. Look for Trapani to win once again when Camden heads to Cony on Friday.

4. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Decker's soccer schedule conflicted with Yarmouth's meet at Falmouth on Friday. He should still be considered one of the favorites in Class B. Look for him to run a fast time at the Manchester Invitational on Saturday.

5. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Pre: 6 Meet: at Leavitt Place: 1st Time: 16:52
Horne clocked in a very impressive sub 17 performance on the historically tough Leavitt course which was good enough for an eleven second victory. He will face a tough challenge when Mt. Blue heads to Brunswick on Thursday.

6. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 5 Meet: ? Place: ? Time: ?
Shafer's senior season has gotten off to a great start thus far. He will get his first real challenge of the season when he races against Liam Simpson of Cape on Friday.

7. Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy
Pre: UR Meet: Home Place: 1st Time: 15:53 (5k)
Cadorette has shown that he belongs in the discussion as the top Class A runner after his impressive 15:53 5k on his home course. He faces a tough challenge when Thornton heads to Marshwood on Friday.

8. Braden Becker Yarmouth
Pre: 8 Meet: at Falmouth Place: 1st Time: 16:59
Becker had a very impressive showing as he placed first running a fast time of 16:59 on the tough Falmouth course. Look for Becker to run a fast time at the Manchester Invitational on Saturday.

9. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 9 Meet: at NYA Place: 1st Time: 16:25
Simpson was victorious once again this season as he cruised to a fast time of 16:25 at NYA. Simpson faces a tough challenge when he races against Will Shafer on Friday.

10. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Pre: 10 Meet: at Leavitt Place: 2nd Time: 17:03
Willingham continues to shine after his second place finish at Leavitt as he ran a very solid time of 17:03. He will face the top runners in the KVAC this Thrusday at Brunswick.

Runner of the Week: Ryan Cadorette Thornton Academy

Runners Knocking: Jonathan Stanhope Bangor, Sam Wood Mt. Ararat, Nate Mackenzie Mt. Ararat, Isaiah Harris Lewiston, Mohamed Awil Lewiston, Bryce Murdick Falmouth, Jesse Southard Gorham, Colin Tardiff Scarborough

Boys Individual Rankings Week 2

1. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 1 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Ellsworth was one of the many teams who didn't compete this weekend. That shouldn't effect Curt's ranking for the time being. Look for Curts to run a fast time when Ellsworth competes at Blue Hill on Friday.

2. Josef Holt Telstar

Pre: 2 Meet: at Telstar Place: 1st Time: 16:26
Holt made it look easy as he cruised to a winning time of 16:26 on his home course. He was nearly two minutes ahead of the runner up. Look for Holt to run another fast time this week.

3. Ben Trapani Camden Hills

Pre: 3 Meet: at Belfast Place: 1st Time: 17:10
Trapani had no difficulty taking the win at Belfast as he cruised to a time of 17:10. Look for Trapani to notch another win at Medomak Valley on Friday.

4. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: at LR Place: 1st Time: 15:16 (2.8m)
Decker was impressive in his xc debut as he took home the victory at Lake Region winning by over twenty seconds. Let's hope he continues to run more races this season. If he runs this week, he will be the favorite to win at Falmouth on Friday.

5. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 9 Meet: at Sacopee Valley Place: 1st Time: 17:31
Shafer continued his fine season last Friday as he took home his third win of the season running a time of 17:31. Look for him to run a fast time at Lake Region on Friday.

6. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Pre: 6 Meet: at Lawrence Place: 1st Time: 17:29
Horne cruised past his teammate Aaron Willingham at Lawrence as he ran a solid time of 17:29. He will face a tough challenge when he races against Lewiston's best this Friday.

7. Jonathan Stanhope
Pre: 7 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Bangor's meet at Waterville was another casualty of the unfortunate weather. Look for Stanhope to run a fast time at MCI on Friday.

8. Braden Becker Yarmouth
Pre: UR Meet: at LR Place: 2nd Time: 15:36 (2.8m)
Becker outkicked Cape's Liam Simpson by two seconds at Lake Region to take second place. Look for Becker to run a fast time at Falmouth on Friday.

9. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 8 Meet: at LR Place: 3rd Time: 15:38 (2.8m)
Simpson placed third at Lake Region running a fast time of 15:38. Look for him to go unchallenged at NYA on Friday.

10. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Pre: 5 Meet: at Lawrence Place: 2nd Time: 17:49
Willingham placed second to teammate Josh Horne at Lawrence last Friday as he ran a time of 17:49. He will face off against the talented Lewiston squad this Friday.

Runner of the Week: Josef Holt Telstar

Runners Knocking: Caleb Lord Hampden, Sam Wood Mt. Ararat, Isaiah Harris Mt. Blue, Jesse Southard Gorham, Farhan Abdillahi Lewiston, Colin Tardiff Scarborough, Jacob Terry Scarborough, Ryan Cadorette Thornton, Bryce Murdick Falmouth

Boys Individual Rankings Week 1

1.   Dan Curts Ellsworth

      Previous:1 Meet: Ellsworth Invitational Place: 1st Time: 15:43
Curts dominated on his home course running the 3.05 mile race in 15:43.He’s time was over 80 seconds ahead of the runner up. Look for him to go unchallenged once again when Ellsworth heads to the Presque Isle Invitational.


2.   Josef Holt Telstar

Previous:2 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Holt has yet to race this season, but expect him to be the heavy favorite to win his first state championship this fall.


3.   Ben Trapani Camden Hills

Previous: 4 Meet: at Winslow Place: 1st Time: 17:27 (3.2 miles)
Trapani came out victorious in his first meet of the season covering the 3.2 mile course in 17:27. Look for him to run a fast time at Belfast this Friday.


4.   Ben Decker Yarmouth
Previous: 3 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Like Holt, Decker has yet to race this season, but should be considered one of the favorites in Class B. Yarmouth races at Lake Region this Friday in what we hope will be his xc debut.


5.   Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Previous: UR Meet: Home Place: 1st Time: 17:01
Willingham broke Kelton Cullenberg's course record at Mt. Blue running a spectacular time of 17:01. His emergence has put himself into the discussion as the best runner in Class A.


6.  Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Previous: 5 Meet: Home Place: 2nd Time:17:19
Horne placed second on his tough home course running a great time of 17:19. Mt. Blue heads to Lawrence on Thursday where Horne should challenge for the win.


7. Jonathan Stanhope Bangor
Previous: 10 Meet: Home Place: 1st Time: 16:08
Stanhope pulled out an impressive victory on his home course running a solid time of 16:08 for the 3.05 mile course. Bangor heads to Waterville on Friday where he should go unchallenged.


8. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Previous: 7 Meet: Home Place: 1st Time: 16:03
Simpson lead wire to wire on his home course as he covered the three mile course in 16:03. His time is now the 11th fastest in course history. Expect Simpson to challenge Ben Decker for the win when Cape heads to Lake Region on Friday.



9. Will Shafer GNG
Previous: 8 Meet: at York Place: 1st Time: 15:54
Shafer pulled away from Yarmouth's Braden Becker for a four second victory at York high school running an impressive time of 15:54. Look for Shafer to go unchallenged at Sacopee Valley on Friday.


10. Caleb Lord Hampden
Previous:UR Meet: at Bangor Place: 2nd Time: 16:12
Lord placed second to Jonathan Stanhope of Bangor running a great time of 16:12. He has emerged as one of the top runners in the KVAC and should challenge for the state title in Class A.




Runner of the Week: Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue




Runners Knocking: Braden Becker Yarmouth, Isaiah Harris Lewiston, Chris Cote Waterville, Bryce Murdick Falmouth, Sam Wood Mt. Ararat, Nate Mackenzie Mt. Ararat, Ryan Cadorette Thornton

Preseason Rankings: Boys Individuals

1.       Dan Curts Ellsworth

              SB: 15:42 States 2013: 1^st Class B

Curts looks poised to have a spectacular final season on the trails as he hopes to win his second straight xc title. He had a tremendous outdoor season running 4:14 and 9:15 in the 1600 and 3200 respectively. Look for Curts to contend for the individual title at the New England Championships and perhaps make a run at Footlocker Nationals.

2.       Josef Holt Telstar

SB: 15:59 States 2013: 2^nd Class C

 

 

The senior from Telstar will be gunning for his elusive first xc title this fall. His outdoor track season indicates he’s ready to do that after he set the All-Time Maine record in the 5k running 14:57. Along with Curts, he’s a threat to win the New England title and make a run at Footlocker Nationals.

3.       Ben Decker Yarmouth

SB: DNR States 2013: DNR

Decker hasn’t run a single cross country meet in his career, but his 32:40 at Beach to Beacon indicates he’s ready for a monster year on the trails. He had some great success on the track as well as we saw him run 9:41 in the 3200. Look for him to contend for the runner up spot in Class B.

4.       Ben Trapani Camden Hills

SB: 16:36 States 2013: 3^rd Class B

Trapani had a breakout season last fall as we saw him place third in the Class B state meet. He’s the top returner in the KVAC and should challenge Ben Decker for the runner up position at the state meet.

5.       Josh Horne Mt. Blue

SB: 16:47 States 2013: 4^th Class A

Horne emerged late in the season as one of the top runners in Class A last fall as evidence to his fourth place finish at the state meet. He’s already off to a great start as he came out victorious at the Laliberte Invitational running the 2.4 mile course in 13:21.95. He’s the early favorite in Class A this year.

6.       Isaiah Harris Lewiston

SB: 16:50 States 2013: 6^th Class A

Harris’s emergence last year was one of the biggest storylines of the entire season. After a sixth place finish at the state meet, he became one of the best 800 runners Maine has ever seen running 1:53.35. With his blazing speed, look for Harris to contend for the individual title in Class A.

7.       Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth

SB: 16:41 States 2013: 6^th Class B

The senior from Cape Elizabeth is returning after a great outdoor season in which we saw him run 9:49.5 in the 3200. He was also the third Maine high school finisher at Beach to Beacon running 34:54. Look for Simpson to challenge for a top three finish in Class B.

8.       Will Shafer GNG

SB: 17:04 States 2013: 10^th Class B

The mid-distance star from Gray has already gotten off to a great start this season as he placed first at the Lake Region Invitational covering the 2.75 mile course in 15:22. Shafer is as talented as anybody in the state and could very well challenge for a top three finish in Class B this fall.

9.       Jesse Southard Gorham

SB: 17:22 States 2013: 19^th Class A

Southard is out to prove he belongs amongst the best runners in Class A after his 16:51 performance at the Jack Wilkinson Invitational. He’s the top returner in the SMAA and should contend for the state title.

10.   Jonathan Stanhope Bangor

SB: 16:24 States 2013: 14^th Class A

Stanhope has been one of the most consistent runners in Class A for the past two years. He had a great year on the track as we saw him run 10:10 in the 3200. He is amongst the handful of runners who will contend for the individual title.

 

Runners Knocking on the Door: Braden Becker Yarmouth, Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth, Caleb Lord Hampden, Robert Looker Ellsworth, Mohamed Mohamed Lewiston

The Jack Kelly Award

The Jack Kelly Award is given annually to the top boys runner in the state

 

Got no brains. Why we starting to fight each other? It's just what the big shots wanna see. That we're street trash, street rats with no brains. No respect for nothin' including ourselves. So here's how it is if we don't act together then we nothin'. If we don't stick together we nothin'. And if we can't even trust each other, then we nothin'. So whats it gonna be?

Previous Winners

2011: Matt McClintock Madison

2010: Silas Eastman Fryeburg

 

And the winner is…

 

Dan Curts Ellsworth

.04 seconds. That was the difference in deciding the state champion, and it was also the difference in deciding the runner of the year. Curts narrowly edged Eastman at the Manchester Invitational running a blazing time of 15:42, then out leaned Eastman at the line at the state meet running a time of 15:47.52. Curts was on fire all year, as he finished his season undefeated in Maine. His only blemish came last week at the New England Championships where he placed 17^th which was still good enough to earn All New England honors for the second straight year. Curts is the heavy favorite to repeat and next fall. After that, who knows? He could very well make a trip to Footlocker Nationals next fall if he decides to race.

 

2. Silas Eastman Fryeburg 2^nd Class B SB: 15:42

3. Jack Pierce Merriconeag 1^st Class C SB: 15:57.41

4. Josef Holt-Andrews Telstar 2^nd Class C SB: 15:59.89

5. Cam Nadeau Biddeford 1^st Class A SB: 16:30.48

Week 9 Power Rankings: Boys Individuals

1.      Dan Curts Ellsworth

Previous: 1

Meet: States

Place: 1^st

Time: 15:47.52

Curts edged Silas Eastman in one of the most epic battles we have seen in Maine history. His time of 15:47.52 is now officially the tenth fastest ever on the Belfast course. Curts has to be considered one of the favorites to win the New England Championship’s on Nov. 10^th.

2.      Silas Eastman Fryeburg

 

 

Previous: 2

Meet: States

Place: 2^nd

Time: 15:47.56

Eastman suffered a rare loss in the last state meet of his brilliant career. Despite the loss, Eastman should be considered one of the favorites to win the New England Championships. He may even have an edge on Curts with the race being at Twinbrooks.

3.      Jack Pierce Merriconeag

Previous: 3

Meet: States

Place: 1^st Class C

Time: 15:57.41.

Pierce saved the best for last as he pulled away from Holt-Andrews during the last mile running a life time best of 15:57.41. Look for Pierce to contend for a top ten finish at New England’s.

4.      Josef Holt-Andrews Telstar

Previous: 4

Meet: States

Place: 2^nd Class C

Time: 16:20.43

Holt-Andrews placed second in Class C running a fast time of 16:20.43. Look for him to bounce back and contend for a top ten finish at New England’s.

5.      Cam Nadeau Biddeford

Previous: 8

Meet: States

Place: 1^st Class A

Time: 16:36.40

Nadeau showed on Saturday that last week was just a fluke as he brought home the Class A state championship running a time of 16:36.40. Look for Nadeau to contend for a top 25 finish at New England’s.

6.      Ben Trapani Camden Hills

Previous: 5

Meet: States

Place: 3^rd Class B

Time: 16:36.49

Trapani had a fine race on Saturday as he placed third in Class B running a time of 16:36.49. Look for him to contend for a top 25 finish at New England’s.

7.      Robby Hall Scarborough

Previous: UR

Meet: States

Place: 2^nd Class A

Time: 16:39.88

Hall had a great race on Saturday as he nabbed the runner up spot in Class A running a time of 16:39.88. Look for him to contend for a top 25 finish.

8.      Nate Madiera Greely

Previous: 6
Meet: States

Place: 4^th Class B

Time: 16:40.83

Madeira capped off a great senior year with a fourth place showing in Class B running a time of 16:40.83. Look for Madiera to use his home course to his advantage and contend for a top 30 finish at New England’s.

9.      Lucas Bourget Edward Little

Previous: UR

Meet: States

Place: 3^rd Class A

Time: 16:47.26

Bourget ran his best race of the season on Saturday as he placed third in Class A running a time of 16:47.26. Look for Bourget to contend for a top 40 finish at New England’s.

10. Braden Becker Yarmouth

Previous: UR

Meet: States

Place: 5^th Class B

Time: 16:51.09

Becker had his finest race of the season on Saturday as he placed fifth in Class B running a time of 16:51.09. Look for him to contend for a top fifty finish at New England’s.

 

Runner of the Week: Dan Curts Ellsworth

 

Runners Knocking: Liam Simpson Cape, Mohamed Awil Lewiston, Mohamed Barre Lewiston, Isaiah Harris Lewiston, Mohamed Mohamed Lewiston, Peter Doane Cape, Robert Looker Ellsworth, Tyler White Orono, Marc Hachey Winthrop