On Saturday, November 12, Hastings' star cross-country athlete, Caitlin Thomas, ran an incredible race at the NYSPHSAA State Championship meet, placing 10th out of 129 runners, and qualifying to compete in the Federation Championship this Saturday, November 19, at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, New York.

Only a sophomore, Thomas is one of five cross-country student-athletes in Section One to qualify to compete in States and one of 40 individuals to qualify for the Federation Championship.

"If you didn't know who Caitlin Thomas was before, you do now!" said Director of Health, Physical Education & Athletics Andrew Wendol. "This is an incredible accomplishment; one that most cross-country athletes can only dream of."

According to Thomas's Coach Molly Guilfoyle, Thomas had an intense summer of training before entering this season.

"At each meet, she got better and better, both physically and mentally. I could see that she was gaining more confidence, and at every single race, she just went out there and gave it her all. I am so proud of all her hard work," Guilfoyle said.

"The entire Hastings Athletic Department and community are so proud of her and can't wait to watch all of the great things she has in store in the future," said Wendol.

Stay tuned for a special Student Spotlight on Thomas in the next Hastings Happenings.