The Group 2 girls team title race could be one to remember as Willingboro and Rumson-Fair Haven are so far neck and neck in the standings. The Bulldogs received a major boost in that race early on Day 1 courtesy Clemmie Lilley, Reese Reynolds Malone and Izzy Rodriguez.
Lilley took the spot in the Group 2's 800 while Reynolds Malone took second and Rodriguez added on points with a fifth place finish to give Rumson-Fair Haven 22 points in the event.
"It's an awesome feeling," said Lilley, now a three-time gold medalist in the Group 2's 800. The more points the better. It was a really nice and relaxed race, and these kind of races really build our confidence."
Lilley earned her third consecutive gold medal in the event by running a 2:09.94 while Reynolds Malone ran a 2:10.43 and Rodriguez finished with a time of 2:17.21.
Both Lilley and Reynolds Malone said being a part of the trio is a major advantage in reducing nerves and competing at a higher level.
"We didn't know how good we had it until we created this kind of environment our selves," said Lilley. "It's definitely something we put a lot of work into. So to have this kind of trio and also a lot of younger girls who are stepping up is pretty awesome. We're so grateful; there's nothing better than running with your best friend every day. We get to laugh and tell stories while we're running in circles (in practice). (Running) is painful, but it's so worth it."
"It's fun running with each other every day," added Reynolds Malone. "Getting on the line alone, I could never imagine that. All of our nerves leave once we're together. It's a really special trio we have.
Lilley, a Stanford commit, will have the chance to add some more points for the Bulldogs on Saturday in the 400 and 1600 while Reynolds Malone will compete in the 400 and 200 and possibly the 4x400.