“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try one more time.” – Thomas Edison The girls cross country team traveled the long 2 hour and 30 minute trip to Malone University for a night race that featured a lot of excitement and tough competition. Growing ever more popular among high school races, the night race itself poses challenges such as uncertain footing and not knowing exactly where one's competition may be. There is a lot of trust in one's self and what can be achieved. The Vikings, still dealing with some injuries were able to race 11 girls who shared one goal, go have fun and see what happens. As they applied neon colors and hair ribbons the girls also carried a sense of determination. Racing the defending Division 3 Champion Ireland Johnson, from Marlington and the current Division 3 #1 team in the State, Minerva, the race would provide a great testing ground for the Vikings. Reese Galinger, who recently committed to Ohio University to run cross country and track, started off with a more controlled, but found her groove and blazed forward as the race progressed, finishing with an 18:18, placing second, as she ran her personal best and second fastest time in school history. Addie Keplar continued to run strong and show steady improvement as her time got faster for the 4th consecutive race this season and she placed 8th (19:34). Khloe Maxwell continued a strong season, by showing less fear and more determination, finishing 28th (21:20). Lauren Charter, placing 4th for the Vikings, her highest team placement in her young career, finished in 42nd place (22:15). Perhaps the race of the night goes to another young Viking. 1st year runner and freshman Aubrey McKibben, who ran over 30 minutes in her 1st 5k, ran over 5 minutes faster placing 107th, running a 25:30. Rounding out the top seven for the Vikings were Rialynn Carver who continues to get closer and closer to last year's form, placed 114th (25:51) and Hannah Daniels, who remains steady on the course with her composure and improvement from week to week finished 115th (25:55). The Vikings placed 4th out of 16 teams in the tight and competitive race as they continue to see new girls step up and show improvement from week to week. Not only did the top 7 girls run great, but on a night where many girls ran personal bests or season bests, the following girls also had great races with awesome results. Scarlett Mets (118th-26:27) Ellie Smith (132nd-28:07) Evie Hix (134th-28:12) Mikaela Frabott (135th-28:18) Despite the challenges the Vikings have faced, whether it be injuries or any other setbacks, one thing is certain; no matter who is racing for the Vikings they will run with passion, determination, and will always keep moving forward. Results: https://www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/276981/results/1104238