Andover Girls Cross Country traveled up north to compete against Phillips Exeter Academy, Deerfield, Montrose, and Northfield Mount Hermon (NMH) at the Exeter Invitational on Saturday. Led by Emma Hagstrom ’25 placing fourth individually and Tasha Bohorad ’26, Chloe Song ’26, Co-Captain Ashley Song ’23, and Zoe von Eckartsberg ’26 each finishing in the top 15, Andover placed second in the quad meet. The team’s record now stands at 2-2.
Emily Wu ’25 described the team’s feelings and expectations heading into the race. With many runners returning from injury and competing amongst a dense field of runners, the team went in with mixed emotions.
“We were more anxious about this because it’s a quad meet, and I wasn’t feeling that ready. I was hearing about a lot of changes that were [happening], because a lot of us were recovering from injuries. And a lot of us are trying to get PBs [personal bests] so it was a bit nerve racking, especially when it’s that many schools [competing]. It was fun, nervous and exciting,” said Wu.
Alison Schneider ’26 shared similar sentiments to Wu, noting the high energy going into the race. Schneider emphasized the benefits of a quad meet’s larger field.
“I was definitely nervous. It was a quad meet, so four teams including us were there so [there were] a lot of people, but it was going to be fun because the more people there are, my mindset is ‘the more people to pass’, so it’s definitely encouraging,” said Schneider.
According to Wu, Andover feeds off its high energy during meets. Wu expressed her enjoyment of the team’s encouraging atmosphere.
Wu said, “Andover, our school is always [the] most enthusiastic. At all the team meets, we have Big Blue spirit and we’re always the ones that cheer the loudest. Honestly, I love the culture in cross country because we’re all so supportive of each other and it feels like you’re never alone when you’re running.”
Tasha Bohorad ’26 commented on the strong sense of community within the team.
Bohorad said, “I think in the beginning [of the season], people were really close [and] a lot of my best friends are on the team… it’s really great to see how everyone supports each other even when people get injured. It’s just a really inclusive community and you can be in any stage of your journey, or any journey, and still feel included and everyone is trying their hardest.”
Andover Girls Cross Country will face Exeter away on Saturday.
