Icardo leads Wampus Cat runners in Kellogg

Coach disappointed runner can’t compete at district meet

CLARK FORK — Senior Max Icardo ran a personal best 19:26 to lead the Clark Fork cross country team last weekend at a 5K race at Pinehurst Golf Course near Kellogg.

Freshman Gabe Sweeney was right behind with a personal best of 19:28, with Michael Myers rounding things out with a 22:26 for the Wampus Cats.

“I couldn’t be more proud of these guys. They ran their hearts out and it shows in the results,” said head coach Nellie Lutz. “I’m excited to see how Michael and Max do at districts.”

Unfortunately, it could be the last race of the season for Sweeney, a student from Elk Mountain Academy, which is only a part member of the Idaho High School Activities Association, which means he can’t compete in a state sanctioned event.

Lutz was understandably disappointed in the decision, noting Elk Mountain doesn’t pay enough to IHSAA to be a full member.

“I have watched this young man work his butt off to get where he is. He never complained once,” said Lutz. “I have never worked with such a hard working, determined individual, and frankly the fact that he can’t compete because of money just (stinks).”

Lutz called the association to see if Clark Fork High School could somehow come up with the funds, but was told it was impossible and would be a year long process to get Elk Mountain Academy approved.

Other Elk Mountain students, who play sports for Clark Fork, have also been shut out of districts and state in other events as well. None of it sits well with Lutz, who feel the student loses out most.

“As an association whose mission is to ‘coordinate, supervise and direct interscholastic activities which enhance and protect the total educational process of all student participants,’ I don’t think they are doing a good enough job,” claimed Lutz. “I’m sorry Gabe, you deserve to compete.”

Lutz is lobbying to see if Sweeney can compete in the JV race.