The 31st annual Petty Classic, a multi-school cross-country race, occurred on Saturday, Sept. 7 at Del Val.
The race hosted runners from Bound Brook, Del Val, Manville, South Hunterdon and Warren Tech. The annual event honors Bill Petty, a legacy coach of Del Val.
The runners ran three miles around the property, including the outskirts of the football field, tennis courts and soccer field, before finishing near the ticket booth.
The boys ran first, with Manville dominating the race. The school had eight runners finish before any other school.
As the girls’ race began, Del Val had front-runners at the beginning of the race and as they rounded the tennis courts. However, the race finished evenly with all five schools placing in the top six.
The crowds were quick to cheer on all runners and offered their support at all corners of the race.
At the finish line, runners were greeted by the crowd as well as teammates. T-shirts were given as a gift to all competitors.
Gabriel Zala of Manville and Lucy Reed of South Hunterdon won their respective races. Overall, Manville won the boys’ race with 15 points and Del Val won the girls’ with 26 points.
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The boys line up, ready to begin their race.
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Del Val and Warren Tech runners approach the finish line.
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A Del Val runner finishes the race strong.
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The girls’ teams take off for the second race.
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Runners move around the tennis courts to cheering from spectators.
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Runners race to cross the finish line as officials congratulate them.
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