Strong showing at National Cross Country Championships

Wanderers posted impressive performances at the National Masters Cross Country championships on October 16 at Saratoga, N.Y.

Jeff Hayes and Fred Kenney competed for the elite Philadelphia Athletic Charities Track Club. Jeff finished 12th in the 5k race in a time of 16:20, five seconds behind local cross country strongman Chuck Shields. Fred finished 49th in 19:09 over the rolling course in upstate New York. The athletic charities team finished third in the seven-team field behind the Genesee Valley Harriers and the Adirondack Athletic Club.

Lynne Andersson and Mary Pat MacFarland excelled in the women's division. Lynne, who has had an outstanding year competing in masters competitions, finished 20th in a time of 20:33, while Mary Pat was not very far behind in 29th place in 21:29. Lynne and Mary Pat were to compete for the Philadelphia charities womens team but ended up running unattached when injuries resulted in a withdrawal of the charities team.

The race was held in Saratoga Spa State Park under sunny and cool conditions. For more information, follow Chuck Shield's link www.chuckxc.com and the race link www.usatfadir.org/USAMasters5k.htm .