Northampton cross country coach, Dan Benner, advised junior, Hayley Jackson, to get a good, fast start at the Class AAA PIAA State Cross Country Championships last weekend at Parkview Cross Country Course in Hershey, Pa.

Jackson followed his advice, and ultimately, completed the race in 21:03.

"I took it out pretty hard and wasn't terribly tired. I just wanted to stay up more, but I'm really happy with my time," Jackson said.

This was Jackson's second trip to Parkview, although her first race there was two years ago.

"It was the same as I remembered. Maybe, a little easier," she said.

Known for its significant hills, both in number and size, Jackson was prepared.

"I run on my toes for those, and I lean forward. It's a good time to pass people. The end is one big hill where everybody's tired. I usually have a pretty good finish, and I passed four or five girls right at the end," said Jackson.

In the boys Class AAA race, teammates, Alec Lederer ran a 17:23, and Chris Traugher ran a 17:40.

"It was a little muddy, so I took longer strides. The start was really packed, and it was too tight to pass anyone. I was with Alec for about half the race," Traugher said.

Traugher had planned to save as much energy as possible for the hills.

"I was just trying to keep my own pace. I opened up at the finish and got two passes. I felt good about my time, and it was a really good experience for next year," he said.