At the state-qualifying cross country meet Saturday, Sumner High’s contingent proved cross country is indeed a team sport.

Saturday’s meet covered a 3.1-mile course at American Lake Golf Course in Lakewood.

Working cohesively as a unit, Sumner’s female harriers wove in and out the throng of runners and qualified their squad for Saturday’s state meet at Pasco’s Sun Willows Golf Course.

Crossing the finish line first for SHS was seasoned runner Gabby Phelps, placing 14th at 20 minutes, 15 seconds. In her shadow was Abi Hensler, who checked in at 16th with a clocking of 20:43. Robi Long came through with a 24th place finish at 21:47 and Natasha Wilson was 35th at 21:56.

The Spartan boys won’t be making the excursion east to participate as a team, but Coltin Tanner cracked  the top 25 to qualify as an individual. He finished 21st place with a time of 17:13.