Congratulations to the Rome Free Academy Modified Cross Country runners on their outstanding performance at the 83rd Annual E.J. Herrmann Cross Country Invitational, held in Utica this past Saturday.

The boys cross country squad captured the team victory with an incredible showing, placing four runners in the top five overall. William Filarey led the way with an impressive 8:20 finish to place first in the 1.5-mile race, followed by strong finishes from his teammates to secure the team win. The results by name, finish, and time included:

• William Filarey – First Place, 8:20

• Carter Pelton – Second Place, 9:10

• Ian Pelton – Fourth Place, 9:48

• Gavin Burdick – Fifth Place, 9:56

Congratulations as well to RFA modified cross country runner Olyvia Emery, who earned an outstanding third-place overall finish in the girls race after completing the 1.5-mile course with a time of 11:30.

Congratulations to all our Rome runners on a fantastic day of racing and for representing RFA with pride!

RFA boys modified cross country runner William Filarey holds the first-place plaque after being the top runner at the boys modified race during the 83rd Annual E.J. Herrmann Cross Country Invitational.

RFA girls modified cross country runner Olyvia Emery poses for a photo after placing third overall during the girls modified race at the 83rd Annual E.J. Herrmann Cross Country Invitational.

Photos provided by RFA Modified Cross Country Coach, David Brognano