Braves Finish 8th in CIF-SS Finals

During a time of day where fast times were not to be expected because of scorching weather conditions the St. John Bosco Braves did all they could to overcome an evenly matched division 2 race and some sub par performances. Coming into the competition ranked 7th in the state the Braves were hopeful if not confident that they could put together a solid team effort and advance to the California state meet for the fourth season in a row. As in years past, this years squad, while talent heavy did not have the luxury of a deep team. Runners one through five had to have an on day.

The trio of junior Victor Bonilla, senior Jonathan Batres and junior Justin Martinez led the Braves. While struggling to run "fast" in the heat all three athletes were able to finish in the corresponding places they were instructed to. Bonilla was able to capture an all CIF-Southern Section medal for his strong efforts. The MVP candidate raced as the Braves #1 man in every race this season. Junior Timothy Barreto struggled as the Braves #4 man for the 2nd race in a row and finished well off his targeted finish place. Sophomore Brett McCoy also visibly struggled on the hot day, but managed to finish in his targeted position as he finished as the Braves #5 runner. Senior John Woscek and junior Geoff Garces rounded out the top seven for the Braves.

Though disappointed with their placing and disillusioned with a season where they put in a great deal of hard work the Braves realize that in order to be successful when it counts most, full focus on the task at hand is of utmost importance. And although the Braves fell short of their ultimate goal of making the State meet they were able to achieve the type of success that some programs only hope for. Coming from an untested group of runners last season to a battle tested group of veterans the Braves who return 4 from their top 5 will let this season be a bitter starting point of great things to come. Look for them in 2006...leading the pack.