Nogales cross-country runners are ready for a great season after finishing one of their best seasons in two decades last year, head coach Manuel Gatica said. Runners were ready to hit the track Tuesday, during the first week of practice, but a cloudburst with lightning took runners off the track after one lap. The team went to the weight room to work out after the short run and introduction of new and returning runners by Gatica.

Nogales High Lady Apaches' runner K.C. Zuniga crosses the finish line for second place against Sahuarita Sept. 26 at Nogales High School. At right, Susan Melendez comes down the final stretch for third place. Tuesday's practice was cut short due to a cloudburst and lightning storm in Nogales.

2007 season

The 2007 season was great, Gatica said. The girls had 16 wins and one loss (to Salpointe) in the regular season. The boys had 15 wins and two losses.

The team participated in four major invitational's last season: Marana, Sue Fletcher, Los Mesquites and Tombstone. They're scheduled for the Marana, Sue Fletcher, Los Mesquites, Thunderbird and Tombstone invitationals this year.

The girls placed first in regionals in 2007, with K.C. Zuniga winning the regional title. Aaron Puerta took first in the boys' race, and the boys finished second at regionals. Zuniga returns this season.

State

The girls' team placed third at state, and the boys fourth. Zahira Jimenez placed third and Zuniga fifth. Jimenez also returns this season.

That was the best season for Nogales in some time, Gatica said. "We had a tremendous season, and left an impression on our competitors."

Jimenez also broke a school record, with a time of 16:04 last season. She was named to All Southern Arizona First Team. Zuniga made All Southern Arizona Second Team and returnees Jose Valdez, Adelice Legleu and Esther Estrada received honorable mention.

Captains

Gatica said seniors Andrea Acosta and Adelice Legleu were named girls' captains this season and Hayash Garcia as boys' captain.

Gatica encouraged the team to display dedication, discipline and hard work. He emphasized the importance of being on time for all team practices and to notify himself or team captains ahead of time of missed practices.

Expectations

Runners should show good sportsmanship and respect to all athletes and coaches, Gatica told runners. "Wear your uniform with pride. You represent your school, team, family and the community of Nogales. You will leave your mark this coming season. NHS cross country is here to race."