A reverse order start doesn’t mean running backward, but it does change the flavor of a race.

Using the reverse order start – where the slower members of the team get head starts on their faster teammates in 20 second increments – the Thompson Falls high school and junior high cross-country teams competed in the Mission Shadows Dual meet in Pablo Saturday.

Adding to the running mix, hay bales were also strategically placed on the course as they always are in this race.

“Our runners enjoyed hurdling the hay bales, and sliding through a bit of mud,” coach Sarah Naegeli said. “Not many PRs at this race, but a good chance to just enjoy the competition and different race order. It's fun to watch runners move up and pass, and experience running alongside athletes they don't always see.”

Naegeli said the Hawks competed with smaller teams at Pablo with five high school and five junior high runners, adding that the high school team will have 10 competing at Western B, as the four 8th graders will move up.

In the varsity races, Lexi Franck (23:40) and Maddy Zymroski (a personal best 25:23) ran for the Hawk girls in Pablo, while Nathan Baxter (20:34), Blake Shusterman (20:48) and Ethan Traver (22:07) competed for the Hawk boys.

Naegeli said that junior high harriers Jonathan Toyias and Wyatt Clawson will also run on the varsity boys team Thursday.

Naegeli said her runners are ready for the Western B-C. “Our XC runners had great races over our Mountain West-Whitefish-Thompson Falls week, most with three solid performances in a row,” she said. “We have been actively recovering since then, and focusing on our final two meets. Polson is a great, fun race to throw in before the end of the season.”

    HAWK HARRIER freshman Ethan Traver bale jumps in Pablo last week. (courtesy photo by Sarah Naegeli)