UPDATE: The 2025 Shore Coaches Invitational at Holmdel Park has produced astonishing results, with multiple runners breaking historic records and dramatic team upsets unfolding during the girls’ races. Three runners clocked under 18 minutes, marking a day that will be remembered in New Jersey cross country history.
In a stunning display of talent, Blair Bartlett of Lawrenceville took home the victory in the Girls Varsity F race, finishing with a blazing time of 17:23, the fourth-fastest in Holmdel Park history. Bartlett, who had never seen the course prior to race day, demonstrated exceptional adaptability and strategy.
Meanwhile, Union Catholic dominated the Girls Varsity E Division despite missing key runners, as Paige Sheppard clinched her third consecutive title with a time of 17:37.44. The team managed to place five runners in the Top 12, surpassing nationally-ranked Shenendehowa from New York.
In another standout performance, Leah Starkey made history by becoming one of only 30 girls in state history to break the 18-minute mark at Holmdel, clocking in at 17:59.16 in the Girls Varsity D race. Starkey, who has consistently improved throughout her season, expressed her disbelief at her rapid progress, stating, “It feels like really crazy to be going like a minute faster now.”
Additionally, Voorhees, ranked No. 17 in the NJ.com Top 20, pulled off a significant upset over No. 5 Paul VI, taking the team title in the Girls Varsity D race with an impressive average time of 19:52. They showcased their depth with five runners finishing in the Top 15.
In the highlight of the Girls Varsity A race, Molly Domurat of Hunterdon Central shattered her previous Holmdel PR by nearly 40 seconds, finishing second overall with a time of 18:38. Domurat’s comeback from a devastating injury last year has been remarkable, stating, “It’s just such an amazing experience and it’s just been crazy, honestly.”
Ridgewood made headlines by upsetting New Jersey’s No. 2 team, Princeton, in the Girls Varsity B race. The Maroons, led by All-State runners Natalie Knowles and Katherine Keating, finished with a total score of 53 against Princeton’s 70. Keating remarked, “We proved that we can run fast and that we have good team spirit and energy.”
As the event unfolded, many athletes reflected on their journeys and the emotional significance of their performances. Allison Lee from West Windsor-Plainsboro North won her second Shore Coaches title in the Girls Varsity B race, clocking in at 18:36. She highlighted the importance of this meet for her confidence going into the championship season.
The 2025 Shore Coaches Invitational not only showcased incredible athleticism but also brought to light the resilience and determination of young runners. The results have set the stage for an exciting racing season ahead, as teams and individuals look to build on their successes.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to cover the outstanding performances from this historic event.