The Vashon High School cross-country teams traveled to Chambers Bay in University Place last Saturday to race against 54 teams in stiff competition and changing weather. There were many season’s-best performances, marking improving fitness, and three personal bests set on the challenging course. The meet featured an open race that allowed Vashon’s two middle school harriers to race. Gabe Zapf ran the 5-kilometer course in 20:50 (personal best) and Tory Hu ran it in 32:23 (personal best).

The Pirate girls’ team was led by Lucy Boyle (junior, 22:01), followed by Ellie Lande (sophomore, 23:34), Isabelle Spence (sophomore, 25:16) and Simone Newcomb (junior, 25:20).

The boys’ team was led by Gianno Waller (senior, 18:53), followed by Cole Parks running a personal best (sophomore, 19:00), Theo Hu (senior, 20:57), Simon Clark (sophomore, 21:08), Luke Stephanick (senior, 21:29), Ursa Medeiros (freshman, 21:36), Sam Knight (senior, 21:48) and Jake Hannah (sophomore, 22:36).

After press time Tuesday, Vashon hosted its home meet on the trails around the schools, featuring another open race. On Saturday, the Pirates will travel to Lakewood to race in the Hole in the Wall Invitational against 93 teams from as far away as California.

— Bruce Cyra