PITTSFIELD, Mass. -- Garrett Ramsey and MaryRose Williams were the winners Wednesday in the first of an eight-week summer series of races hosted by the Pittsfield High School cross country team at Pittsfield State Forest.

 

The team is hosting the competitions as a fund-raiser. The entry fee is $10 per race or $50 for the summer.

 

"It’s a really fun time with a great community of runners," PHS coach Teresa Apple said. "If you’re looking to hit a PR or just run for fun with like-minded people, come on down."

 

On Wednesday night, Ramsey hit the tape with a time of 22 minutes, 19 seconds, just three seconds ahead of runner-up Joe Geurds.

 

Williams was the first woman across the finish line with a time of 27:29. Chloe Potash was the second female runner, clocking a time of 27:48.

 

Thirty-five runners participated in the first race, which is sponsored by the Western MA Running Alliance with all proceeds going to the teams at Pittsfield High.

 

The July 15 race will feature a post-race pizza party for an additional $5 donation.