On October 3, 2023, the Guam High Panthers showcased their prowess in cross country running, overcoming treacherous muddy conditions during the second week of the ISA Cross Country League at John F. Kennedy High School. Despite the slippery terrain, the Panthers emerged victorious against fierce competition from the JFK Islanders, Tiyan Titans, Southern Dolphins, Harvest Eagles, St. John’s Knights, and the Majesty Conquerors.
Steele and Egbert Lead the Boys Division
Caleb Steele, a standout from Guam High, claimed first place in the boys division with a time of 17:49, just a second ahead of his teammate Eldon Egbert, who finished at 17:50. The duo set a rapid pace from the outset, motivating each other throughout the challenging course.
“The course was super muddy. There were some challenging turns, but I’m glad I had Eldon to push me throughout the race,” Steele said. He reflected on his strategy from the previous week, emphasizing the importance of pacing. “Last week I went out too hard, and I knew in this meet that I needed to stay behind him in order to pace myself.”
The Panthers are aiming for their sixth consecutive cross-country title, and Steele expressed determination to contribute to the team’s success. “We are definitely working hard to try and win all-island once again. I will always do whatever I can to do what’s best for the team and what my coach needs me to do,” he added.
Spuler Shines in the Girls Division
In the girls division, the Panthers continued their strong performance with sophomore Naomi Spuler, the reigning All-Island champion, finishing first with a time of 22:23. Spuler was closely followed by teammate Taliana Longoria, who recorded a time of 22:59. Their finishes underscored the Panthers’ dominance in both divisions.
“After watching the boys race and seeing how many people were slipping and falling, we just knew that we had to be smart,” Spuler remarked. She highlighted the tactical aspect of racing, stating, “My coach always says that the winner of the meet is not always the person who is the fastest but who runs the race the smartest.”
Under the guidance of legendary coach Joe Taitano, the Guam High Panthers continue to set the standard for cross country on the island. Their performance not only reflects individual talent but also the strength of their program as a whole. The team’s efforts reinforce their commitment to excellence as they strive for continued success in upcoming meets.
As the season progresses, the Panthers’ resilience and teamwork will be crucial in their pursuit of another championship title, solidifying their legacy within the sport. With a mixture of grit and strategic racing, they remain a formidable force in the ISA Cross Country League.
