Spanish River coach Rick Rothman was on an emotional roller coaster Friday at the Taravella Cross Country Invitational at Quiet Waters Park.

The veteran coach who built his girls' program into a state powerhouse 25 years ago, was mourning the loss of one of his former runners who played an important role in that winning tradition.

Brenda Banuelos, the first runner to win four consecutive state team titles (1999-2002), died suddenly Sept. 7 in Orlando.



Banuelos, a two-time team captain and Silver Streak Hall of Fame member at Spanish River, was a senior at University of Central Florida where she was majoring in criminal psychology. She was 22.

"She was a great kid, a fun-loving person," said Rothman, who last talked with her in June. "She was talented with a really bright future ahead of her. She had a 3.8 grade-point average. She was always fun and a great, loyal friend. It's really a tough loss. She will be missed and always be remembered."

Rothman didn't dwell on Banuelos' death, focusing instead on his team's impressive performance at the 10-team meet.

The Sharks, with 23 runners, dominated the girls' competition on the same course that will be used for districts. Nine girls are vying for the team's top seven spots.

Junior Skye Woodhouse won the girls' individual title in 21 minutes and 58 seconds for 3.1 miles. She outsprinted teammate Danielle Irwin in the final few yards (21:59).

"Our coach told us to go out together and try to stay together the whole time and that's what we did," Woodhouse said.

The Sharks had four girls in the top 10. Lisa Gabrielle, younger sister of former Spanish River standout Michelle Gabrielle, was seventh in 22:48. Allie North was 10th in 23:05.

Fort Lauderdale Pine Crest junior Chris Baker won the boys' title in a career-best 17:20. Spanish River freshman Jeff Madsen was the top Palm finisher, placing third in 17:57.

Spanish River's girls' team plans to wear B.O.B. patches on their warmup jackets in honor of Brenda Olivia Banuelos. There is also a Rest In Peace dedication on the team's Facebook page. Those interested in donating to the Brenda Banuelos Memorial Scholarship Fund should call Rothman at 561-241-2019. Details are still being worked out for a memorial service in the area.