Teams from Tennessee and Kentucky battled it out for the championship of the 21st Annual Cougar Run on a day that was made for running at the Logan County High School cross country track.

“Another successful invitational is under our belt and we are already preparing for a much bigger meet, the Western Kentucky Meet of Champions, to be held on the same course, Saturday, Oct. 26,” says Coach Greg Howard.

“I’m so proud of our kids and their parents. When it’s time to go to work, both do an admirable job, and do so with a great deal of pride. Their efforts stood out either in the races or the roles being performed. A great job to all and a big “thank you” to all our volunteers!”

The races started out with the varsity boys taking a second place trophy for their efforts. “We have yet to put all the pieces together and have consistent times showing gradual improvement, but I know that time is coming,” Howard says.

The Cougars were led by senior Kaleb O’Dell as he placed 3rd with a time of 18:44.20. Levi Crossley finished 6^th in 19:01.50, Kelly Eicher, 9^th in 19:17.20, 8th grader Gage Cousineau 33^rd in 20:56.60, 7^th grader Tanner Morrow 35^th in 21:01.50, and Riley Wharton 38^th in 21:39 to complete the scoring. Despite having three runners in the top ten the Cougars just couldn’t score low enough to beat Madisonville-North Hopkins for first.

The next race was the girls middle school. Maria Wells placed 19^th with a time of 14:51.10 for the 3K course. In the boys middle school race, Matthew Jenkins finished his race in 22^nd and a time of 14:16.90.

Next up were the elementary races. Those competing for the Cougars were Ashtyn Cole with a top ten finish in the girls 2K race and a great time of 10:21.90 and boys Price Violett, 16^th place in 9:17.30 and Ethan Jenkins 27^th place and a time of 11:07.40.

“Overall a great day of running and fun for everyone in attendance,” Howard says. “Our kids continue to improve and make me so proud of their efforts. They are a true joy to coach and I love them all!”