Arbutus XC Rumble 2025: Vancouver Island Hosts Premier Cross Country Event
The second annual Arbutus XC Rumble returned to Arbutus Meadows on October 4th, drawing 480 athletes to compete on a newly updated course under ideal weather conditions. From Track Rascals to university squads, the event offered a full day of racing that highlighted the depth of talent across Vancouver Island and beyond.
The High School Invitational, sanctioned by BC School Sport, attracted teams from across the province, including schools traveling from the Lower Mainland. In the Senior 5k, Rhys Beaudoin claimed victory in 16:11, eight seconds ahead of Finlay Boggan, with Sebastian Damian completing the podium in 16:23. Claire Babiuk won the Senior Female 5k in 18:33, followed by Charlotte Gough in 18:49 and Katherine Kennedy in 19:34. Only two athletes finished under 19 minutes in a field of 68.
The Junior 4k races featured commanding performances. Matthew Hhrysio won the junior male race in 14:27, 25 seconds ahead of Max McArthur, with Clayten Barstow third in 14:58. These three were the only athletes under 15 minutes. Clara Simpson dominated the junior female race in 15:10, the only runner under 16 minutes, finishing 50 seconds ahead of Stella Nadler (16:00) and Isla Ross (16:02) in a field of 75. In the para race, Grayson Common completed the 2.4k in 15:52 to take the win. The University of Victoria also fielded a squad in the 8k Open race, adding further competition and depth to the event.
The course received strong praise from coaches.
Cliff Kennell, coach at Highland Secondary School, said:
"The venue is absolutely incredible and the runners from all over BC coming for the provincials are in for an incredible experience with such a superb course."
Tessa Kubicek, cross country coach at Oak Bay High, added:
"The race course was beautiful and the kids absolutely loved the layout. The course markings were great, honestly such a wonderful race and a big thank you to you and your crew for putting on this event and BCs this year."
With strong fields, clear winning performances, and a challenging course, the Arbutus XC Rumble has quickly established itself as one of British Columbia's premier cross country events, even in just its second year.