The Ward Melville boys cross country team delivered an outstanding performance at the NYSPHSAA Championships this past weekend, finishing an impressive second overall in the entire state. The talented group — Asher Tu, Matteo Ritieni, Luke Jantzen, Andrew Senf, Anthony Anatol, Pepe Van Der Velden, and Ty Buonomo — continued their season-long display of strength, consistency, and depth as they competed against the top programs across New York State.
Each runner contributed to the team’s outstanding success, showcasing the determination and discipline that have defined Ward Melville’s distance program for years. Their collective effort earned them a well-deserved runner-up finish, marking one of the strongest showings in program history and reinforcing Ward Melville’s reputation as one of the premier cross-country teams in the state of New York.
Among the standout performances, senior star Anthony Anatol delivered a truly exceptional race, placing fifth overall out of an astonishing 488 runners. His top-five finish not only highlights his individual talent and competitive drive but also reflects the hard work he has put in throughout the season. Anatol’s performance played a crucial role in securing the team’s second-place finish and added another remarkable achievement to his already impressive resume.
The entire Ward Melville squad demonstrated remarkable poise in a championship setting, navigating a challenging course and highly competitive field with maturity and focus. Their teamwork, preparation, and commitment to excellence were evident from start to finish, making this result a source of pride for both the athletes and the whole Ward Melville community.
As the season concludes, the team can celebrate not only a strong finish at the state meet but also the dedication, growth, and camaraderie that carried them there. Their second-place finish at the NYS Championships stands as a testament to their exceptional effort and the bright future of Ward Melville cross country.