STEELE CONQUERS MUDDY XC CONDITIONS

By Shania Bulala

What many might consider ideal weather conditions for distance running quickly turned into a true test of grit as runners battled a slippery and muddy course Tuesday afternoon at John F. Kennedy High School in week two of the ISA Cross Country League.

The challenging terrain did little to slow the Guam High Panthers, who rose above the conditions and stamped their authority amongst the competition from start to finish. Competing alongside the JFK Islanders, Tiyan Titans, Southern Dolphins, Harvest Eagles, St. John’s Knights, and the Majesty Conquerors. 

Steele Finishes in 1st

In the boys division, Panthers’ Caleb Steele powered through the tough terrain to claim first place, finishing in 17:49 just one second ahead of teammate Eldon Egbert, who crossed in 17:50. The dominant pair set the tone from the start, pushing the pace and feeding off each other’s energy all the way to the finish.

“The course was super muddy. There were some challenging turns, but I’m glad I had Eldon to push me throughout the race. Last week I went out too hard, and I knew in this meet that I needed to stay behind him in order to pace myself,” reflected Steele. “I always appreciate the friendly competition with my teammates. It’s good to know that we’re all on the same team and all have the same goal.”

The Panthers are determined to chase after their sixth consecutive cross-country title. “We are definitely working hard to try and win all-island once again. I will always do whatever I can to do what’s best for the team and what my coach needs me to do,” said Steele. 

Spuler Leads the Pack

In the girls division, it was another Panther sweep. Sophomore standout Naomi Spuler, the reigning All-Island champion, led the charge with a strong first-place finish in 22:23. She was closely followed by teammate Taliana Longoria, who finished in 22:59, solidifying the Panthers’ dominance in the girls division as well. 

“After watching the boys race and seeing how many people were slipping and falling, we just knew that we had to be smart,” said Spuler. “My coach always says that the winner of the meet is not always the person who is the fastest but who runs the race the smartest.” 

With the Panthers’ strong showing in both the girls and boys divisions, they continue to prove that their program is as sharp as ever. Under the steady guidance of legendary coach Joe Taitano, they continue to set the standard for cross country across the island.

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