On October 26, 2024, Dylan Gerdes, a Junior from Madison High School, went to compete at the South Dakota State Class A Cross Country Meet out in Rapid City. Gerdes has run at the state meet the last four years, since his 8th grade year. At this state meet, he placed 14th in Class A, running a 17 minute 26 second 5K. Dylan stated, “The course was nice, it was my first time ever racing the course. I enjoyed the views out there during the race. You don’t get these views when you are on the east side of the river.” He also noticed the difference in elevation between west and east rivers, explaining “The elevation in the West made the race challenging. There is less air; therefore, your muscles tire faster.” Dylan enjoyed watching and supporting his friends from all over the state as they competed. During the off-season, Dylan plans to continue his training so he can make it back and be better for next year.
Pictures by Dylan Gerdes