BC Performer of the Week: December 2 - December 8
The 2024 Gunner Shaw Memorial Cross Country Race, held at scenic Jericho Beach Park, marked the finale of the BC Athletics Lower Mainland XC Series. The annual xc race, held in honuor of "Gunner" Shaw, a beloved BC runner who tragically passed away in a car accident in 1984 at the age of 39, has long been a cherished event on the provincial cross country calendar. True to its reputation, the event featured challenging terrain, a mix of mud, sand, and hills, and spectacular performances.
With athletes ranging from rising stars to seasoned competitors, here are this week's standout nominees:
Kouken Narbett (17) of the Kajaks stole the show as the top overall finisher, completing the 5km course in an impressive 17:08.5. His commanding performance earned him the win with a comfortable 15-second margin.
Delphine Gosselin (17) of the Vancouver Thunderbirds was the top female finisher, dominating her division with a stunning time of 19:09.4. She placed third overall and finished over two minutes ahead of the second-place female athlete.
Simon McCutcheon (14) of the Vancouver Thunderbirds delivered an outstanding run against older competition, finishing as the fourth male overall in 19:54.6. His performance showcased his incredible potential at just 14 years old.
Chloe Ip-Jansen (12) raced to a fourth-place female finish in 21:45.1. Competing against athletes up to four decades older, her time on the challenging course was nothing short of remarkable.
It's time to celebrate BC's talent and vote for your BC Performer of the Week!