Gael harriers reset their goals for 2026
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Last year, St. Edmond boys cross country head coach Mike Szalat was left with an unusual feeling.
For the first time since taking over the Gael program over two decades ago, Szalat did not have a runner qualify for the state championships.
Now, the veteran leader leans on an experienced group of runners to make sure that was a quick hiatus.
Seniors Dylan Brokaw, Erik Larson, Aidan Reel and Abram Ribbens lead the way. They are joined by juniors Ethan Cibert and Owen Rutherford. Andrew Barwin, Cooper Cokeley and Gordon Seeden comprise a strong sophomore class, with freshmen Davin Darling, Liam Duong, William Gubbels, Ashton Kuker and Vincent Pearson rounding out the roster.
Larson, a captain alongside Brokaw, Reel and Ribbens, does have state experience. He competed in 2024 with St. Edmond in Class 1A.
"We've got a lot of guys that had really good summers," Szalat said. "I'm feeling really positive about the progress we've made since the start of practice.
"Erik is one of those kids who has put in the miles over the years. He probably put in too many summer miles before his junior season and was a little fatigued throughout that year. He's been smarter about it while still putting in the time."
Barwin was the highest finisher at districts among runners returning for the Gaels, as he placed 32nd overall. Seeden was two spots back in 34th, with Larson finishing 36th and Cibert cracking the Top-80.
"I feel like we've got a solid Top-5 and will have some good competition for those last two varsity spots," Szalat said. "Gordon has looked really good early on, as has Ethan. With the freshmen, this will be good experience for them towards the future."
Szalat will once again be assisted by CJ Tracy.
St. Edmond opens the year on Thursday in Gowrie at the Southeast Valley Invitational. They will run in meets hosted by Webster City, Belmond-Klemme, Ridge View, Emmetsburg, Humboldt and Algona before taking part in the Fort Dodge Invitational at the home of the state championships on Oct. 8.
The North Central Conference meet is set for Oct. 13 in Hampton at Maynes Grove.
2026 ST. EDMOND CROSS COUNTRY
Roster
Seniors – Dylan Brokaw, Erik Larson, Aidan Reel, Abram Ribbens.
Juniors – Ethan Cibert, Owen Rutherford.
Sophomores – Andrew Barwin, Cooper Cokeley, Gordon Seeden.
Freshmen – Davin Darling, Liam Duong, William Gubbels, Ashton Kuker, Vincent Pearson.
Schedule
Aug. 27 – at Southeast Valley.
Sept. 1 – at Webster City; 8 – at Belmond-Klemme; 12 – at Holstein; 15 – at Emmetsburg; 21 – at Humboldt; 28 – at Algona.
Oct. 8 – at Fort Dodge Invitational; 13 – at NCC in Hampton.