Although this season has been difficult for the boys cross-country team at Clarkston, two of its members represented the team at the state finals at Michigan International Speedway on Nov. 4.
Senior Nick LaMora and sophomore Jeff Kuhl qualified for the trip on Oct. 27 at Clintonwood Park at the regional meet. Kuhl qualified by running a 16:29.3 and LaMora ran 16:35.0.
Kuhl made a nearly identical showing in Brooklyn, Mich. at the finals, finishing at 16:29.4. LaMora shaved nearly seven seconds off his time, finishing in 16:28.4.
Both have been running since their pre-teen days. LaMora was thrown into an outdoor race at age 10 and Kuhl was inspired by his performance in the mile run at his elementary school have to continue to advance in their sport.
‘My mom threw me in an outdoor race to see if I liked it,? LaMora said. ‘I was happy because I finished before her. She was excited for me because I would go far.?
Both Kuhl and LaMora run track in addition to cross-country.
They both prefer the way they can let loose and get lost during the races.
‘When I’m running’you lose yourself into it, and I love that,? Kuhl said.
Coach Mike Taylor said when LaMora maintains his focus, he becomes a much better runner.
‘When he applies himself, he’s a tough character,? he said.
Taylor said Kuhl has shrugged off the inconsistency that plagued his freshman season and adjusted his running.
Kuhl plans to go to the University of Michigan to become a family doctor. LaMora is deciding between Northern Michigan University and Oakland Community College, where he hopes to go into computer engineering.
One of Kuhl’s goals is being able to compete at the state finals every season of his Clarkston career. LaMora plans to continue running after high school.