New Hampton Runners Shine at 2025 Cross Country Qualifier
UPDATE: The New Hampton Chickasaws showcased their potential for the future during the 2025 Class 2A cross country state qualifying meet held at Hickory Park Golf Course in Oelwein on October 19, 2023. Despite strong performances, the team narrowly missed state qualifications, but their impressive results signal a bright future ahead.
New Hampton junior Braden Manson finished the challenging 5K race with a personal best time of 17:52.4, placing 19th overall. “I’m disappointed, but I’m happy I ran my best,” Manson expressed. “I’ll use this as fuel for next year.” His determination reflects the spirit of the team as they look forward to the 2026 season.
In a competitive field of 14 teams, New Hampton secured a commendable fifth place with 166 points, while Oelwein clinched victory with 42 points. Waukon and Monticello followed in second and third place respectively, advancing to the state meet in Fort Dodge.
Coach Jamie Ohrt praised his athletes, noting their significant improvement throughout the season. “We had one in the 17s, and several others achieved new personal records,” Ohrt said. “I can’t ask for more than what they gave on that course.” In addition to Manson, sophomore Kamdyn Trower also impressed, finishing 30th with a time of 18:23.1, shattering his previous record by over 17 seconds.
“I ran like 20-something earlier this season, and now I’m almost two minutes faster,” Trower said, crediting his strength training and increased confidence for his success. “Once I got into the 19s, it was like, ‘OK, I can do this.’”
Senior Easton Monteith achieved a season-best time despite recovering from a summer surgery. “I’m really proud of Easton; he kept working to get better this whole season,” Ohrt added. Meanwhile, senior Colin Shatek faced disappointment, finishing 42nd with a time of 19:06.9, but Ohrt reminded him of his contributions to the team this year.
The Chickasaw girls also made strides, led by senior Juanita Cardona, who finished 34th in a career-best time of 22:11.9. Other girls, including Josi Singewald and Rebecca Wickman, also posted personal bests. Coach Ohrt noted the absence of two-time state qualifier Sophie Glaser due to a recurring knee injury, highlighting her dedication as she cheered for her teammates despite not competing.
“It’s hard because I know how much she wanted to run,” Ohrt stated, praising Glaser’s support for the team.
As the team reflects on their achievements and the lessons learned, Manson emphasized the importance of mental toughness in cross country. “It’s not just the legs that have to be in top shape,” he said. “You have to find the will to just keep going.”
Looking ahead, the Chickasaw runners are already focusing on the next season. “We can have a spectacular team next year,” Manson declared confidently. Trower echoed this sentiment, stating, “Our goal is to get to state as a team.”
The future looks bright for the New Hampton Chickasaws as they prepare to build on this year’s successes and aim for an even stronger performance in 2026.
