The West High School Cross Country Team placed second in the 5K Boys Invitational meet Saturday, Sept. 28 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The West team was one of 25 teams that competed from around the country in this particular event. A team from Middletown, Ohio took first place.

“This team ran with the greatest heart to compete on a tough course,” said coach Luis Cruz. “Their passion for the sport pulled them through.”

Coach Cruz said the West runners described the hilly course as the toughest race they have ever run.

The success in Charlotte has placed West High School in the Top 25 in national rankings for the sport.

The West High School Cross Country Team includes Toby Gonzales, Jessie Romero, Daniel Trujillo, Joe Cruz, Mohamad Ige, Aden Ahmed, and Frank Medina.