3-peat American River men a budding dynasty?
(FRESNO) The men’s individual title did not go to the favorite, but to a teammate. American River’s Luis Luna (19:58.21) led an ARC three-peat in the 50th running of the men’s CCCAA Cross Country Championships by edging Steven Martinez (20:01.05) of San Diego Mesa who finished seventh in 2012. Finishing third was Martinez’ teammate Albert Gamez (20:16.88) while favorite Will Reyes (20:20.55), Luna’s teammate and a 2012 All-American, was fourth, by nipping OCC’s Luis Morales (20:22.14) who was fourth in 2012.
ARC beat OCC for the team title 72-93, while SoCal champ San Bernardino Valley was third at122. This was a record three-peat for the Beavers and the fourth title under head coach Rick Anderson. No NorCal men’s team has ever won three consecutive state cross country titles. SBVC has the record with five from 2006-2010. It would appear ARC is the next likely dynasty in the making.
The Beavers third finisher in the team standings was freshman Sean Jagerson (20:51.94) at 18th while sophomores Chris Kigar (20:59.94) and Jacob Huston (21:05.13) were tightly bunched for the fourand five spots. Freshman Patrick Jagerson (21:20.50) and soph Brennan Holman (21:23.65) provided insurance. It would appear that the Jagerson brothers will be the foundation for ARC’s continued successin 2014. Add a number of highly talented incoming freshmen and four-in-a-row is a distinct possibility.
With Anderson placing a fourth state title trophy in the case at ARC (his first was in 2005), thatspace is shared with second place trophies from 2003 and 2010. If Anderson continues this level of success, he may need to consult with OCC’s Marco Ochoa about hiring a cabinet maker to expand shelf space!
Woody Wilk | CCCSIA