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Published Sunday, October 05, 2008 in Sports

Newnan boys 16th at ASICS Invitational

By Tony Jones

The Times-Herald

DOUGLASVILLE -- Both Newnan High cross-country teams took a huge step forward in the ASICS Invitational here on Saturday morning at McIntosh Nature Preserve.

Newnan coach Shaun Dailey has been challenging his kids the last two weeks and his team responded by establishing 15 personal records. "We had a great day, a breakout day. We are thrilled about the 15 all-time best times," said Dailey.

The Newnan boys finished 16th in the team standings. William Pike looked like the old William Pike as he placed sixth in a time of 16 minutes, 23 seconds.

Pike, who had finished eighth here a year ago, emphatically stated, "I'm back!" The top talent in the county ran a smart race. Pike didn't go out too fast and had plenty left in the tank as he came home.

Jonathan Ballantyne finished 19th at 16:51, with the Cougar sophomore shaving more than a minute from his time last year, when he was 62nd overall at18:00.

Also giving a good effort were Semaj Allen (18:29), Sean Blinco (19:19), Will Sweet (19:34), and Stuart Sumner (19:35). Sumner was 42 seconds better than his 2007 showing.

The Newnan girls, who finished 18th, were once again led by Elizabeth Gresham. The Lady Cougar senior was 71st, hitting the line at 21:43.

Sandy Gamino (21:48) was just behind Gresham. Next best were Daniella Galvin (22:04), Ashley Quesinberry (22:22), Cesilly Skinner (23:00), and Kristen Adams (24:01).

Dailey, who himself just completed a half-triathlon last week was pleased with the effort.

"We've been working very hard," he said. "All of that work paid off today. It was a successful meet and one that will greatly prepare us to do well the remainder of the season."

Newnan will travel to Zebulon next Saturday to compete in the Pike County Invitational. East Coweta and Northgate teams were off this weekend.

East Coweta will join Newnan in Zebulon next weekend. The Northgate teams will travel to Hoover, Ala. to participate in the Great American Cross Country Festival.

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