Bears Shine at Section 6A Championships

by Coach Kenny Miller

The Bertha-Hewitt Bears traveled to Minnewaska on Thursday, October 23, for the Section 6A Cross Country Championships, determined to keep their impressive streak alive of sending athletes to the Class A State Meet for the fifth straight year.

Under ideal fall conditions and on a challenging, hilly course, the Bears rose to the occasion and proved once again that they are one of the premier small-school programs in Minnesota.

The girls’ varsity race kicked off the day, and junior Kendra Miller led the charge for Bertha-Hewitt. Miller delivered a tremendous performance, placing 6th overall in 19:40.8 to punch her ticket to the state meet for the fourth time. Close behind was senior Miette Hansel, who ran the race of her life—recording a personal best of 19:47.2 to finish 8th overall and qualify for her first-ever state meet.

Senior McKayla Kapphahn capped off her high school career with a strong showing, finishing 43rd (22:17.2), just shy of her personal record. Aulani Johnson continued to display steady progress, placing 73rd (24:18.9) on one of the most demanding courses of the season. All four girls battled the rolling terrain with grit and composure, setting the tone for the rest of the day...

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