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Despite the large target that has been set on the back of the 3A girls’ cross country team, the Lady Dinos plan to keep moving toward a second straight state title with a strong group of returning athletes.
“We are looking to defend that title, but we have our work cut out for us,” said head coach Telisse Martak, who is in her 16th year at the helm of Carbon cross country. “Emery, Canyon View and Manti all pose a big threat to the girls’ team.”
Seniors Sophia Taylor, Ellie Hanson and Ada Bradford are all returning to run for the Lady Dinos. Sophomore Rozlyn Stowe, known for her recording-breaking races, was the front runner from Carbon last year and will continue to pave the way, according to Coach Martak. Sophomores Alexa Jones, Aly Bryner and Kaylie Pitcher are also strong returners and have earned themselves varsity positions, rounding out the team’s scoring seven.
The boys’ team, while young, has big goals for the season. The team is aiming for the top spot this year with fresh talent. Freshmen Michael Weber, Bracken Hanson and MJ Rushton are knocking on the varsity door, Martak said, while sophomore Nicholas Cartwright has shown some strong distance capabilities, landing himself a seat in varsity as a newcomer.
The lone returning senior for the boys is Easton Humes, who has proven to be a team leader, guiding the underclassman through the program. He is followed by sophomore Evan Criddle, who is running in the second position in varsity. Logan McEvoy (junior), Bradley Sweeney (junior) and Dallin Humes (sophomore) are also making waves with the effort they put in during the off season.
The team of 40 runners has been training five days per week since June 12. “They really have put the miles and work in,” Martak said. “We still have tons of work to do, but I am confident with this group of kids. They all want to work hard and rise to the challenge.”