Local Runners Shine at WPIAL Cross Country Championships

Laurel Highlands senior Bella Baker led a talented group of local runners at the WPIAL Cross Country Championships, securing a spot in the state meet with a fifth-place finish in the Class 2A girls race on October 26, 2023, at White Oak Park. Baker’s performance sets the stage for her final high school cross-country competition next week at the Parkview Cross Country Course in Hershey.

Baker’s teammate, junior Taylor Schwertfeger, will accompany her to the state meet after finishing 19th with a time of 20:22.40. Two other sophomores, Brooklyn Steeber from Belle Vernon and Charley Murtha from Uniontown, also qualified, marking their second consecutive appearance at the state level. Emma Larkin, a senior from Geibel Catholic, completed the local contingent after placing 13th in the Class A girls race, ensuring her fourth trip to the state meet.

Despite the cold and challenging weather conditions, Baker expressed satisfaction with her overall performance. She completed the race in 19:37, though it fell short of her personal record. “Due to the weather, it was harder to breathe out here today, and I think I do better when it’s warmer out,” Baker remarked. At the one-mile mark, she managed a pace of 5:58 but dropped to fifth place by the two-mile mark, finishing strong despite the tough elements.

Baker noted that the race’s start posed difficulties due to her team being in box No. 2, which impacted their initial positioning. “We were trying to play catch-up in the first 200 meters, so I think that kind of affected it a little bit,” she explained.

Schwertfeger, who follows in the footsteps of her brother, Matt Schwertfeger, a three-time state qualifier, is determined to continue the family’s legacy. “It is pretty cool that my brother and I have qualified for the state meet multiple times,” she said. Schwertfeger, who earned her state berth last season during her brother’s senior year, is now focused on performing at her best in Hershey.

Steeber and Murtha demonstrated impressive racing strategies, positioning themselves closely behind Baker. Steeber finished seventh with a time of 19:45.60, while Murtha came in 15th at 20:10.20. Murtha shared her excitement about qualifying for the state meet again, stating, “It feels amazing to qualify for states a second time.” She attributed her success to maintaining pace with the top runners early on and pushing through in the final stretch to achieve a personal record.

Steeber echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing her goal of closing the gap on Baker for future races. “Even though we are opponents, we always support each other,” she noted, reflecting the camaraderie among competitors.

Larkin’s journey to the state meet is particularly remarkable given her initial reluctance towards running. She improved significantly from her earlier performance on the same course and finished in a personal best of 20:41.60. “I ran the Red, White & Blue Invitational on this course earlier in the season, and I believe I ran in the 22s, so I was probably two minutes faster today,” she expressed.

As she prepares for the state competition, Larkin is hopeful for a strong performance, aiming for a top-25 finish. “It would be awesome if I was able to place in the top 25,” she said, emphasizing her competitive spirit.

Larkin, who has also excelled as a basketball player, admits that her determination takes over once the race begins. “I have never been a fan of running, and that hasn’t changed, but once I start competing, my desire to do well takes over because I hate to lose,” she said, highlighting her dual commitment to athletics.

With the state meet approaching, these local runners are not only showcasing their individual talents but also the strong community support that fuels their ambitions. Their achievements at the WPIAL Championships reflect dedication and perseverance, setting the stage for an exciting competition ahead.