The Lakes Community High School Girls Cross Country team is off to an impressive start this season. Coach Keith West and the varsity team came out with a bang, taking first place at Fox River Park on Aug. 24.

Freshman Olivia Schmitt hustled her way to the lead, winning her first high school race and setting the stage for the Eagles, along with Sophomore Rae Dwyer who finished fifth.

Senior and Captain Alyssa Stromsland was the 5th scorer finishing in 15th place. The entire team contributed to an eight point victory, making for an outstanding first meet.

“I think we have a stronger team than last year,” sophomore runner Simone Lippmann said. “We have better chances to win this year and everyone on the team has been improving.” Lippmann said.

Wednesday, Aug. 31 was another impressive performance for the Eagles at the Lake County Invite at the Waukegan Sports Complex. Once again, Schmitt and Dwyer bolted to the top finishing 5th and 11th. Schmitt even set a personal record of 18:10. Sophomore Hannah Grant also had a personal record of 20:42, and ended up scoring in 47th place. Freshman Ashley Alm rounded out the score in 70th, with a time of 21:54. Overall, the team cruised their way to a successful 5th place victory.

“We have had a really strong start to this season, finishing as a top team in half of our meets,” said Megan Knuettel, a runner on the team. “I’m excited to continue to be apart of this amazing team,” Knuettel said.

The Girls Cross Country team is expected to do big things this season, with more meets and invitationals this September.