The Bishop Blanchet boys cross country team took their talents south last Saturday to compete in the 22nd Curtis XC Invitational.

The Braves put on a strong showing in Tacoma, placing 2nd out of the 37 schools competing in the race. Drew Schornak was the highest placing Brave, finishing the the race 18th and posting a 16:51.60 in the 5,000 meter. Sophomore Michael Lewis finished on the heels of Schornak, placing 19th with a 16:52.6 in the 5,000.

Varsity had a solid outing Saturday, but the real fireworks came in the JV race. The Braves placed first in the 5,000 meter race out of 30 teams. The team performance was dominate, but individually, 2 of the top 3 finishers belonged to Bishop Blanchet. Sophomore Nicky DiMartino posted a 17:41.20 and finished first in the race. Junior Jack Lacambra finished 3rd with a 17:45.40. DiMartino and Lacambra were joined by sophomore Adam Flood as the only Braves to finish in the top 10 as Flood placed 8th.

The Braves’ impressive performance at the Curtis Invite did not come without them facing adversity. Junior Cole Siebert took note of the health issues plaguing the team, now in the latter half of their season.

“We have had a sickness spreading around the team,” said Siebert, “so with so many people out it has been difficult at practice to prepare for meets.”

Not only sickness has been an issue for the Braves.

“We have had a few people sidelined with shin splints, which is a common injury in runners.” said Siebert.

Despite having to overcome the physical wear that comes with being a high school athlete, junior Colin Sams has been happy with the personal improvement he has seen in himself this year.

“I have had my PR go down by a minute,” said Sams, “I got a 20:33 which is a minute faster than my previous PR.”

The Braves look to continue their strong season Thursday, October 5th, as they race against Rainier Beach and Roosevelt at Lincoln Park. The meet is set to begin at 4:20.