Bigfork runners rank high at state

Bigfork’s cross-country runners had one last chance to show off what they had at the Class B State Cross-Country Meet on Saturday in Helena at Bill Roberts Golf Course and they didn’t disappoint.

Senior Evan Jordt had Bigfork’s best finish. With a time of 17:36, he placed 16th. His time was just one second behind the 15th place runner — the spot which he needed to make the All-Sate list. However, he will be remembered by something else from the meet.

“Since cross country was reinstated in 2000, this is the best performance by a Bigfork male athlete,” said Sue Loeffler, Bigfork’s head cross-country coach. “Evan ran a great race and left everything on the course.”

Also narrowly missing All-State recognition was sophomore Chelsea Olson. Her time of 21:02 earned her 17th place.

“She ran an incredible race. She put her whole heart into it,” Loeffler said.

Senior Spencer Jenko finished with a time of 19:43, which was good for 66th place out of the 153 boys competing in the state meet.

“It’s hard to say ‘good-bye’ to the seniors,” Loeffler said. “Spencer worked hard all season and showed strong leadership to the team.”

Sophomore Lane Thole’s time of 20:27 earned him 90th place.

“He has continued to improve all year,” Loeffler said.

Sandy Baker didn’t start competing until late in the season, but she still opted to give the state meet a try, completing the course in 26:42, which ranked her 121st among the 142 girls.

“We had a great state meet,” Loeffler said. “What a great way to end the season.”