Minerva cross country runner Connor Shingleton became the first male individual regional champion in the Lions’ program history at Saturday’s Division II tournament at Pickerington.
Shingleton, who clocked in a total time of 16:43, was joined by his team who qualified for the upcoming state tournament with a 6th-place finish in the regional finals.
Minerva also received a victory from their girls’ cross country team, qualifying for state for the 7th straight year and 13th in program history.
Senior Jenna Cassidy placed fourth among all individuals, while, Hera Hoffee (6th place) Hannah Ison (9th). A Kayla Crissman (17th), Annabelle Crissman (18th), and Caitlyn Hopple (19th).
“To have three girls go top ten, six girls in the top 20, all seven in the top 30 not to mention qualifying six to state as individuals was more than we could have ever expected,” said Minerva girls’ coach Olivia Scott. “These girls are all heart.”
“We are peaking at the right time. The girls keep running for one another. They are spot on with training, sleep, nutrition, and mental focus. We are in a great position to be a top-three team next week at the OHSAA State Championships. I believe in these girls and there is no limit to what we can accomplish. We proved that today.”