It was a day of oh-so-close for the Newton cross country teams as they send an individual to next week’s state meet.

The Cardinal girls placed 5th at Central College on Wednesday, 44 points behind 3rd place Xavier to miss the team state bid. Alexis Sorensen battled through the tough field to earn a trip to Lakeside Golf Course, placing 13th individually. Teammate Audrey Muckler was one spot away from joining her, placing 16th individually.

Newton’s Lance Zaabel was also one spot outside of the qualifying bid, placing 16th individually. The Cardinals boys were 8th in the team race. Cooper Christy was 25th.

Find full results here. Sorensen will be featured on Today’s Lely Radio Sports Page.