By: Sharlane MacLeod
Scarborough, ON - Centennial College's Ashtonbee campus in Scarborough was a hub of activity this past weekend (October 14th) as it transformed from a quiet, residential park into the 2023 Centennial Colts Cross Country Invitational course. The competition was stacked, with 128 athletes (75 Men & 53 Women) from all over Ontario prepared to race in the ultra competitive event.
Spectators lined the course in anticipation of the first race of the day, the women's 6km. With the crowd buzzing, and the pressure on the Centennial ladies, Skye Pinto and Jeannalla Burns did not disappoint. Putting forth huge efforts over the fast, yet challenging course, Pinto crossed the finish line in 14th position in a time of 27:11, and Burns placed 45th in a time of 32:57. It was a great showing for the ladies who now look to the OCAA Cross Country Championships in two weeks time on October 28th hosted by Conestoga College in Cambridge.
The energy from the crowd continued to be infectious as the men stepped up to the start line for the 8km race. Leading the Centennial Men's team was the ever-consistent Irvin Omere, who challenged for the podium throughout the race but, unfortunately, had to settle for 5th in a running time of 26:53, just 15 seconds from capturing 3rd place, and missing out of the Top 3 prize of shoes provided by Brooks Canada.
The next Colt to cross the finish line was Kyle Jackson, who continued to show his competitive ability by placing 25th in a time of 29:34.
Third for the Colts was Ben Yalin, who with his consistent running style captured the 29th position in a time of 29:51.
Battling hard through the crowded field was Jones Chung placing 36th in a time of 30:35.
Shamier Stewart rounded out the men's team by capturing the 73rd position in a time of 40:23.
Congratulations to the Centennial Men's Team on their 6th place finish (out of 12 Teams), and an exciting preview of what's to come at the upcoming OCAA Championships.
A huge thank you to all coaches, support staff, volunteers and most off all, to the athletes who made the 2023 Centennial Colts Cross Country Invitational a huge success!
Additionally, thank you to our sponsors Brooks Canada, Trail Runner Store, Canadian Tire, and Marchants for donating an amazing collection of prizes helping make the day extra memorable for athletes.