Fifth-grader Sebastian Kresge brought home the bronze as Big Park Community School was the runner-up at the Verde Valley Conference cross-country finals Wednesday, Oct. 1, in Chino Valley.

“Sebastian, he’s such a respectful, hard worker,” said Coyotes co-coach Gabe Holland, who along with Big Park teacher Erin Fagan coached 12 runners to second place in the conference behind host Heritage Middle School. “He’s always first out of the gates in practice and always leads by example as a student as well.”

Kresge ran the mile-and-a-half course in a full 10 seconds under the 10-minute mark to win the fifth- and sixth-grade boys race.

“I was planning on doing a little bit better than I usually did, but I’m still really proud of myself,” he said. “I’m planning on getting a first place next year.”

His 9:50 was third overall behind runners from Heritage and Mile High Middle School in Prescott.

For the full story, please see the Friday, Oct. 3, issue of the Sedona Red Rock News.