Quaker Valley cross country gets off to quick start

By: Ray Fisher
Sunday, September 7, 2025 | 11:01 AM

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The Quaker Valley cross country teams began the 2025 season with a fast start.

And that was prior to competing in their first big event on the schedule, the Red White & Blue Classic set for Sept. 6 at White Oak Park.

The Quakers participated in a three-team scrimmage Aug. 26 at Blackhawk along with the Cougars and Riverside.

“Both of our teams handled the Blackhawk course well for this first race of the season,” QV coach Ryan Kelly said. “We are proud of how our student-athletes supported each other throughout the race.

“We are excited about the potential of both cross country teams. The boys return with a strong senior group and promising freshmen, giving us both depth and experience. The girls team features a solid veteran core supported by younger runners eager to make their mark. We expect both squads to grow consistently and be highly competitive in our section and invitationals.”

The QV boys dominated in the team scoring at Blackhawk with five individual times among the top seven.

QV junior Jonah Montagnese opened the season strong with a first-place finish thanks to his 16:09 time.

Senior Tyler Bell, freshman Henry Howard and senior Ryan Kempton placed third, fourth and fifth and were followed by junior James Irwin in the seventh spot.

“They all showed that they will play key roles in our scoring this fall,” Kelly said. ”Jonah Montagnese, Tyler Bell, Ryan Kempton and River Capek were standout performers last season, with Jonah regularly placing near the front of invitationals as well as the WPIAL and PIAA championships.

“Gio Ramella, a junior, and seniors Michael Minnock and Aidan Dwyer also return with valuable varsity experience.”

Sophomore prodigy Lucy Montagnese took first place in the girls race at the scrimmage with a 20:52 performance. Junior Maggie Doz and senior Mia Gartley placed third and seventh.

“We anticipate this trio will set the tone for our girls team,” Kelly said, “with support from juniors Kate Steinfurth and Rose Cline.

“Lucy Montagnese emerged as one of the top runners in the WPIAL last year, while Maggie Doz and Kate Steinfurth bring championship experience, as well. Junior Rose Pocasangre and senior Kendra Hines also return as steady varsity contributors.”

Kelly was pleased with the outstanding overall depth revealed by the QV runners at the low-pressure event at Blackhawk.

“Our freshmen and newcomers impressed in their first outing,” Kelly said. “Henry Howard, James Irwin, senior Aiden Dwyer and freshman Gavin Kahrs turned in competitive races, showing they will strengthen our depth.

“On the girls side, Mia Gartley, Rose Cline, junior Fiona Mikita and freshmen Alexis Kempton and Abby Yates all showed promise in their first (varsity) 5K.”

Tags: Quaker Valley