The 2012 high school cross-country season began on Aug. 23 for the runners from Greene County High School. The Rams took part in the Gilbert Invitational on a warm and windy day at the Iowa State University course in Ames. The course is designed to challenge collegiate runners and has been the site of more than one NCAA Division I Championship race. Factor in the heat and wind and the high schoolers were faced with a difficult season opening event.

Greene County placed seventh among nine girls’ teams in Class A. Gilbert won with 56 points, followed by Nevada at 70, North Polk (Alleman) 70 (Nevada 2nd via finish by sixth runner), Newton 88, ADM (Adel) 121, Perry 132, Greene County 175, Madrid 175 (Rams seventh via finish by sixth runner), and Saydel (Des Moines) 250.

Official boys’ results were delayed by a timing error.