This is the first year that middle school students are allowed to run on the high school cross country teams. On the McIntosh team, eighth graders were allowed to compete at many of the meets throughout the season.

For example, they traveled with the team to Rock Ranch, a large farm owned by the Chick-fil-a company. The race consisted of one loop around the farm. In fact, some students ran through pastures alongside the cows.

Many of the eighth graders set personal records for themselves at this race. Eighth grader, Derek Ewers, said, “Running with the team is such an honor, and I cannot wait to run again next year.”

Eighth grader Liam McLaughlin finished in 20:40, the fastest time on the eighth grade boys team. Eighth grader Megan Uszynski ran a time 20:24.62, and won the girl’s race.