In 2013 the Bishop Kenny boys finished as runner ups in the class 2A State Cross Country finals. This resilient finish was quite unexpected, given the injuries, and setbacks the team had to face all year. However the Kenny boys lost three important members of last year’s 2nd place squad, the key loss being 2013 2A State 1600m Champion, David Yarborough. The Crusaders have a long tradition of excellence; however they will likely be fighting an uphill battle to return to the top in 2014.
This year’s team looks a lot different than last year’s team, and will be relying heavily on a tight pack to lead them to success. Husam Ossi, Brad Franco, and Mason Gerry will be called upon to lead the team, and will need to improve on their performances from last season if they want to add yet another state title to Bishop Kenny’s overflowing trophy case. Husam Ossi will likely be the top runner for the Crusaders, after posting a time of 16:34.15 last season, and coming off a solid 10:19.01 3200m on the track.
The main strength of this team is in the pack running strategy. Coach Curran says that the success of this team will have to come from a concerted effort, and a 15-20 second split for 1-5 is a strong possibility. The team has been doing a lot of hard work over the summer, and will be looking to have strong performances in a few select meets; their very own Katie Caples Invitational, The Great American Cross Country Festival, Pre State, and of course the Cross Country Finals in November.
I had the chance to see this team at Brevard Distance Runners Camp this summer, and another strength they have is in their numbers. Kenny is known for having the biggest team out there, and believe me they are proud of it. Trinity Prep and McKeel Academy look to be the favorites for podium spots with Bishop Kenny guaranteed a top five finish.
2014 Top Returning Times (Based On 2013 Season Bests)
| 3 | Bishop Kenny HS (FL) | 229 | ||
| 1) Husam Ossi | 16:34.15 | 15 | ||
| 2) Mason Gerry | 16:56.15 | 30 | ||
| 3) Bradley Franco | 17:13.68 | 47 | ||
| 4) Eric Chiotti | 17:24.29 | 61 | ||
| 5) James Kaldor | 17:36.17 | 76 | ||
| Average Time: 17:08.89 Total Time: 1:25:44.44 1-5 Split: 1:02.02 | ||||
| 6) Ben Hutchins | 17:57.71 | 121 | ||
| 7) Neil Aleger | 17:59.40 | 124 | ||
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