A week after competing in the Class 3A State Cross Country Meet, members from the Pella High and Knoxville teams will again take to the course today. This time, though, the run is more for fun and recognition than for competition. Pella’s Tukker Bogaard, a senior member of this year’s 3A Boys State Champion, says it has been rewarding to be a leader on this year’s team and says he is looking forward to today’s Senior All-Star Meet with some of his teammates.

“This is only my second year in cross country, but as a senior I was really glad I made the choice to come out and help as a leader. I’ve been blessed by this team,” said Bogaard. “As far as continuing running, we have the Senior All-Star Meet now, which Zach Buchheit, Alex Ropes, Sarah Van Maanen and I will be running in.”

One of those aforementioned runners, Alex Ropes, says even though the meet comes after the season is finished, it’s easier to keep running when you keep good company.

“The opportunity for the Senior All-Star Meet is really nice,” said Ropes. “When you have your teammates to run with after the season, it’s not as hard as you would think. ”

Erik Ryan will represent Knoxville in the boys’ race. Athletes that compete in the Senior All-Star Meet must be nominated to participate. The meet begins with an open 5k at noon today on the DMACC campus in Ankeny.