WEST CHESTER -- The Little Miami boys' varsity cross country team carried their undefeated 2024 regular season record into Round 1 of the OHSAA postseason on a beautiful October Saturday morning at the OHSAA District Championships at VOA Park in West Chester today. The Panthers claimed first place overall as a team by scoring a team-low 30 points and narrowly outran Warren County neighbor Mason who finished second with 35 points. Third place Talawanda claimed the bronze, but was a considerable distance behind The Comets as they finished with 118 points on the board.

The historic district championship effort was led by Ryne Reynolds, who finished second overall with a time of 15:09.5, and fellow Panther Michael Zegarski also finished in the Top 3 at 15:20.5. But the excellent effort didn't stop there! Ian Patrick placed fourth at 15:35.5, and Justin Evan was also in the Top 10 at sixth overall (15:40.9). Derek Gomez (15th), Mitchell Reynolds (16th), and Noah Orr (19th) all had a strong morning as they too cracked the impressive field's Top 20. A complete listing of meet results can be found HERE! 

It is no secret, that the backbone of Little Miami's recent running success can be attributed to the excellent coaching leadership of coaches Jim and Lynn Brant. "We are so excited for the team and this championship," said coach Jim Brant. "We train all year to peak with PRs in the postseason. However, this historic district championship is just Step 1 in our pursuit of our ultimate goal of winning a state title."

The Panthers boys' team now sets their sights on a regional crown next Saturday in Troy, and three talented Lady Panthers who also advance to the Regional Meet as individuals will join them. Lakota West claimed the first overall with 42 points, and the Lady Panthers placed sixth in the field of 14 with 123 points. Leading the Lady Panthers' effort was Sophia France who finished 14th overall with a time of 19:19.4. Stella Cornelius took 17th at 19:34.5 and Ella Brown was Little Miami's final regional qualifier at 18th with a time of 19:36.3. A complete listing of the girls' meet results is available HERE! 

Congratulations to your 2024 OHSAA District Champion Little Miami Runnin' Panthers! Panther Nation is so excited to watch you continue your pursuit of a historic place in Little Miami athletic history!