Performance of the Week: Ocean Athletics Festival of XC (Sept 15-21)
The cross country season is officially in full swing, and this past weekend the Ocean Athletics Festival of Running delivered standout performances across multiple age categories. Athletes battled over rolling courses and challenging conditions, producing some dominant victories and thrilling finishes.
Sasha Dehal dominated the women's 16-17 race - Ocean Athletics' own Dehal had a commanding performance on home turf. Dehal clocked 20:02.28 over 5km, crossing the line nearly 45 seconds ahead of second place (20:47.35).
McKinley Wasyliw controlled the girls 12-year-old race - One of the most eye-catching wins of the day came from Wasyliw of the Vancouver Thunderbirds. She tore through the 3km course in 11:55.92, more than a full minute clear of the field. The next finisher came through in 12:56.63.
Tamara Hamze impressed in the girls 13-year-old race - Hamze ran a quick 11:54.78 over 3km. She was the only athlete under 12 minutes in the field and won with over 30 seconds.
Caleb Baker powered to victory in boys 14-15 - Ocean Athletics' Baker claimed the division with a strong performance over 4km. He stopped the clock at 14:49.40, nearly a minute ahead of his closest competitor.