TA News

On Saturday, Thetford Academy once again welcomed thousands of runners and spectators from across New England for the Woods Trail Run, the school’s iconic cross country event. This year’s run attracted more than 50 cross country teams from across New England, with representation from Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Maine, and New York.

In an interview with the Valley News, Hanover High School’s cross country coach Eric Picconi spoke about TA’s challenging course. “The Woods Trail has tough terrain compared to other venues and runners have to be ready to be humbled a bit. It just tests you and lets you know that there is still work to do. Add a minute to your best time this season and that is what Thetford gives you — a huge dose of humility. Those individuals in the top 10 or the teams in the top five have earned their stripes.”

But the tough course doesn’t deter runners from coming to Thetford – instead, for many, it’s the most anticipated cross country race of the year. Part of its success comes from the energy of the volunteers who help with course set up, parking, concessions, post running, announcing, and more. It’s an “Old Home Day” of sorts for Thetford alumni, families, and neighbors, an annual get-together with purpose and pride.

This year, Woods Trail organizers especially honored volunteers from the Thetford Academy Alumni Association (TAAA) for their years of support. TAAA has managed concessions for the Woods Trail Run and the State Meet for decades, donating proceeds back to Thetford Academy each year. The group plans to pass the torch to the next generation of volunteers next year – and for those in the know, they promise to share their chili recipe!

As for the race itself, TA’s cross country runners had much to be proud of. Here are some highlights:

• In a field of 104 runners in the boys first seed, senior Brady Sloop placed 14th with a PR of 17:18
• Ava Hayden ’25 earned 32nd place in the girls first seed (out of 73) with a time of 21:28
• In the seed 4 race, Ella Harvey ’25 earned 3rd (24:37), Lucia Carr earned 7th (24:58)

For complete results, visit Lancer Timing.

Finally, a big shout out to the course’s founder and namesake Dan Grossman, who also volunteers each year to photograph the event. See some highlights below and visit Maple Leaf Photos for more photos.