Catasauqua opened its 2024 season with its annual Moravian Academy hosted its annual Lions Invitational Aug. 23.

Head coach Kyle Rusnock was pleased overall with his team’s performance. The Rough Riders have some experienced runners as well as their share of newcomers this season.

“It was a success for us,” beamed Rusnock. “Our new runners all finished the race and did a great job.”

Evan Reed was the top boys’ finisher, as he crossed the line in 20:22 and was in 27th place. Nikoloz Kemashvili followed Reed and ran in 21:31 for a 38th-place finish. Jonathan Rizzo posted a time of 23:50 and was 48th, Jack Brubaker ran in 26:26 and was 51st, and David Mercado finished in 33:07 and was 124th.

On the girls’ side, Uyen Ly lead the field in 30:11 and was 97th, Ana Rodriguez finished in 31:04 and was 99th, Carolien Rodriguez cross the line in 32:02 and was 100th, Shakala Roberts recorded a 33:18 and was 102nd, and Kailyn Stewart ran in 37:52 and was 106th.

“Every boy runner ran faster than last year, which is a good sign,” added Rusnock. “Our girls’ team has been improving, as we will look for them to lower their times.”

The Roughies had a meet at Southern Lehigh Wednesday, and they then will participate in the Northampton Invitational Aug. 31.