The JP Stevens cross-country teams demonstrated their tenacity and dedication in another successful season. To accomplish the goals they had going into the season, the teams ran numerous miles in the summertime heat and in the fall. As a reward for their efforts in the preseason and during the season, the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen teams for both the boys and the girls delivered great results.

With his third-place performance at GMCs amongst his other accolades, senior Sohum Walavalkar demonstrated his running prowess yet again in his final county tournament as a Hawk. Senior Karthik Sivalasetti, a much-improved runner who has had a significant influence on the team this year, has been right behind Walavalkar. The strength of the varsity team contributed to JP’s third-place overall finish at GMCs.

The JV cross-country team finished top three in almost every meet they competed in and most recently placed second at the county tournament. The results that the team delivered this year demonstrate that next year’s varsity team will likely be the same, if not better than the current team. The freshmen team also showcased their talents this fall season, finishing 2nd in the GMC championships. Overall, much promising talent showcased itself throughout this season.

With junior Grace Best who placed second at the GMCs and senior Aishika Ghante who has been having a breakout season and placed sixth at the same tournament, the girls varsity team was also strong this year. Both of the girls finished first at the GMCs with record-breaking times. At the GMCs, the girls placed third as a team which is their best result in eight years. Sophomore Namrata Anand, who took first place in the JV race, was instrumental in the JV girls’ team’s victory at the GMCs.

The squad participated in a handful of invitationals this year and overall, they were stronger than they have ever been. The team was able to unite throughout the season and put together a successful season; their outstanding all-around performances and zeal to succeed made all the difference.