The anticipated heat was late arriving at the 2017 Gryphon Open. After environment Canada issued another heat advisory, it was decided each event would be shortened to help athletes manage the heat better, but overcast skies and a refreshing breeze kept the temperature bearable for the first few races. As the day progressed, the heat started to rise as a few athletes struggled with the temperatures which peaked during the senior boys race. Several Senior Boys never made it to the finish line, but it wasn't the heat the prevented them from getting there, but "The Storm."
Within seconds, the sky became overcast again, the wind picked up, and within seconds of the first drop falling, the heavens opened. Rain pounded down reducing visibility to next to nothing. Lightning struck a large willow located just a few metres from the start line, ripping the tree in half. Fortunately, no runners were injured and all made it to shelter from their various spots out on the course.
Hosts Glebe Collegiate captured the Overall Aggregate taking titles in the Midget Girls, Midget Boys, and Senior Girls Divisions. The Glebe Girls demonstrated their strength and depth by winning the Senior Girl's race despite not racing their four scorers who won the Trinity Invitational the previous week. Sir Robert Borden established itself as a contender for the NC title with a solid performance in winning the Senior Boy's race led by individual Champion, Lucas Zanetti.
Bishop Smith (Pembroke) and Beatrice Desloges captured the boys and girls Elementary races. Ottawa Citizen photographer, Wayne Cuddington, was on hand to capture a few shots of the action. You can check out his photos
here.
Full results are available on the
Glebe XC page.
