In a year defined by personal bests and podium finishes, Bonney Lake High School junior Latham West has firmly etched her name into the local sports spotlight. Known for her incredible versatility across three sports—Cross Country, Wrestling, and Track and Field—West has shown that dominance isn’t just a goal; it’s her standard.
This November, West has been nothing short of spectacular on the Cross Country course, earning her The Bonney Lake Insider's Athlete of the Month honor. Sponsored by Bonney Lake Applebee’s, the award comes with a $25 gift certificate—a small token of recognition for an athlete whose performances are anything but small.
West’s junior season began with high expectations, and she wasted no time meeting them. At the WIAA District Westside Classic, hosted at the picturesque yet grueling Chambers Creek Properties Central Meadow, West left no doubt about her status as one of the state’s top runners. Crossing the finish line first in the Women’s 5,000 Meters 4A Varsity race, she clocked an impressive 18:11.4, securing her ticket to the WIAA State XC Championships.
State brought even tougher competition, and once again, West delivered. Racing at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco, she shaved nearly 10 seconds off her district time, finishing third in a blistering 18:02.9. It was a tightly contested race, with runners from Mt. Si and Wenatchee edging her out in the final stretch. Despite missing the top spot, West’s performance placed her among the elite, capping a stellar Cross Country season.
What sets West apart isn’t just her speed, though that’s undeniable. It’s her approach to competition—a blend of focus, resilience, and a relentless drive to improve. At every regular season meet, the storyline has been consistent: West up front, often running alone, and everyone else chasing. Her teammates and coaches have come to expect greatness, and she delivers with quiet confidence.
West’s success this season is just one chapter in what promises to be a remarkable junior year. With Wrestling season on the horizon, fans can expect to see her channel the same grit and determination on the mat. And come spring, she’ll be back on the track, adding more highlights to an already impressive athletic résumé.
For now, though, West is enjoying the moment—and perhaps a well-deserved meal at Applebee’s.
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