Bull Dogs Run Away with Brown County Challenge

Columbus North’s cross-country teams sprinted into the season with dominance at the Brown County Challenge, sweeping top honors in both the boys’ and girls’ races.

The Bull Dog girls were untouchable, claiming the top five places and scoring a perfect six points. Emma Lowther and Tristan Works paced the pack, crossing the line together in 18:40.9 to open the season with a victory that barked loudly. Close behind, teammates Kodi Smith and Rendy Zhong, Kylie Brinksneader and Wendy Zhong, Adira Sluder and Ainsley Sherlock, plus Reece Peeples and Hazel Sasse, filled out the sweep.

Not to be outdone, the Bull Dog boys took eight of the top nine spots, flexing depth and determination. Jace Works and Justin Reckers ran stride for stride to the finish, clocking 14:48.1 for the win. Denton Sluder and Graham Pumphrey weren’t far behind, taking second, with other Bull Dog pairs stacking the leaderboard like a pack on the chase.

For Columbus East, Delaney Rogers and Ainslee Shaw turned in a gritty performance, finishing 18th to lead the Olympians’ contingent.

The Dogs proved they’re already in midseason stride, and if this opener is any indication, both squads are ready to race ahead of the competition all fall.