Grizzlies post strong effort at Powell Invite

The Rocky Mountain cross-country team turned in a solid showing at the Powell Invitational last week, led by a pair of personal records and steady performances across the lineup.

Freshman Rowan Hanusa finished 49th in the varsity boys race with a time of 19:35, while sophomore Zach Unruh followed in 56th place at 19:53, both marking personal bests.

“Rowan and Zach are both low-key performers,” said Coach Tim Jones. “They’re pretty loose and comfortable at practice, but they do a good job of building intensity throughout the run. They’re both internally competitive individuals.”

On the girls side, Avery Thomas, a junior, clocked 23:19 for 43rd place, nearly two minutes faster than her effort in Lander.

“Because of the missed time with her injury this summer, it’s like she’s at the beginning of the year pace,” Jones said. “She has more in the tank. She’s gritty and competitive.”

To keep her healthy, the team is using “varied cardio options, strategic running and regular physical therapy,” he added.

Senior teammates Evynn Alvarez and Ellie Alvarez competed in the JV race, finishing 34th and 37th, respectively, with times of 27:05 and 27:31.

“We ran very well as a team,” said Jones. “Evynn and Ellie ran well in the meet and have been pushing to improve every day in practice.”

Overall, Coach Jones commented, “I’m super pumped with the attitude and effort of my kids.”

Jones also credited longtime assistant Mindy Mickelson for her influence.

“Mindy is the best,” he said. “She’s thoughtful about the needs of everyone on the team. She directs and encourages everyone in a very positive way.”

Next up for the Grizzlies is the Five Rivers Conference Meet at Wyoming Indian High School on Friday, featuring teams from St. Stephens, Fort Washakie, Wind River, Wyoming Indian, Thermopolis, Burlington and Rocky Mountain. The girls race begins at 2 p.m., followed by the boys at 3 p.m., according to Milesplit.com.