Middle school cross-country runners from Indian Lake and Benjamin Logan wrapped up their seasons Sunday, October 25, at the 2026 OHSAA Seventh and Eighth Grade State Cross Country Championships at Fortress Obetz.
The meet gave the young athletes an opportunity to compete against runners from across Ohio and finish their seasons with valuable experience.
Indian Lake Middle School
The Indian Lake Middle School teams capped off a season of personal bests, growing confidence and perseverance.
The girls were led by Aubrey Hoffman, who finished in 16:56. Serenity Albert followed in 17:52, Makenna Gibbons in 18:44, Taylor Alltop in 19:41, Cheyenne Pender in 19:52, Kaylyn Warren in 20:27 and Kenzi Arnett in 20:43.
On the boys’ side, Hayden Thompson led the team with a time of 13:08. Isaac King finished in 13:13, Kole Gilliam in 14:36, Carter Flory in 16:09, Lincoln Nielsen in 16:13, Lincoln Halterman in 16:49 and Gunner Rogers in 19:25.
With 18 new runners on the roster this season, the team focused on improvement, learning how to race and building team connections. Coaches are looking forward to seeing the athletes continue to develop next fall.
Benjamin Logan Middle School
Several Benjamin Logan Middle School runners also competed at Fortress Obetz in what the team described as a bonus meet and the largest competition of the season.
In the girls Division B Team Championship race, runners competed against 292 girls representing 70 schools from across Ohio.
Benjamin Logan results included Pippa Zvansky in 13:32, Paige Courtney in 15:58, Payton Courtney in 16:24 and Mia Cook in 17:25.
The boys Division B Team Championship race featured 377 runners representing 82 schools. Braydon Laird finished in 13:34, Max Schoepfle in 17:41 and Kolt Hays in 17:43.
In the girls Division B Open race, which included 213 runners from 43 schools, Hope William finished in 19:53 and Ava Nangle in 20:07.
Otylia Dennis was injured during the race and was unable to finish.
Both programs celebrated a season of hard work, growth and perseverance, with the state meet providing one final opportunity for the middle school athletes to challenge themselves against competition from across Ohio.
