The Albert Lea girls’ and boys’ cross country teams competed in Rochester Thursday, and finished ninth and 13th, respectively.

“The time and effort the runners put in over the summer is paying off,” Albert Lea head coach Jim Haney said. “Both teams had their best race of the season. The course was tough with many hills and tough terrain but the kids handled the course well.”

Steve Kruen finished first for the Tiger boys, and 42nd in the field, completing the 5k race in 17 minutes and 54.68 seconds.

“Kreun led the way,” Haney said. “The boys packed up and were able to stay together during the race.”

Kruen was followed by Blair Bonnerup, who came in 50th place at 18:09.76. Andy Christian placed 72nd at 18:38.41, Luc Malimanek finished 82nd at 18:56.33 and Eli Malimanek placed 102nd at 19:34.25.

“Bonnerup, Christian, Luc and Eli all had their best races of the season,” Haney said. “I am impressed with the boys as they attacked the hills and challenged during every part of the race.”

The girls’ were led by Bailey Thompson, who finished 16th overall at 16:35.56.

“Bailey is putting together a nice season and has provided great leadership with her consistent performance,” Haney said. “She has goals that she wants to reach and she will continue to push herself to reach those goals.”

Ashley Tewes finished second for the Tigers in 49th place at in 17:38.18. Emma Behling finished 59th in 17:54.20, Alyssa Sager finished 63rd in 18:01.27, Morgan Haney finished 84th in 18:49.95 and Natalie Peek finished in 108th in 20:33.29, rounding out the Tigers’ top seven.

“The rest of the girls all did very well,” Haney said. “Tewes dropped one minute from her time last year, Kenis, Behling and Sager all scored for the Tigers.

“We are getting better and the girls and guys are gaining in confidence,” Haney said. “It is exciting to see the team to continue to grow.”

The Tigers race again at 4:30 p.m. Monday in Fairmont.