NEW CONCORD, OH -- The Trailblazer cross country teams took part in the Muskie Opener at Moorehead Farm, August 30, 2024. Ohio Christian, Muskingum, Defiance, and Hocking College competed in a 5-kilometer race. The course was hilly, and the temperatures registered in the 90's. There were 24 men's finishers and 23 women's finishers.

All eight competing Blazers finished in the top ten. Sr. Corry Mientkiewicz won the men's race in a time of 16:58, and his teammate Sr. Jason Springer finished runner up in a time of 18:02. This was the first time the Blazers finished first and second in the same cross country race in program history. On the women's side So. Impreza Rogers battled Hannah Metzger (21:19) of Muskingum for victory but came up a little short finishing runner up in a time of 21:40. All four lady Blazers were in the lead pack for most of the race.

"This was a terrific opportunity to get our feet wet and gain some experience," said second year Head Coach Brittany Dickerson. "There were a lot of good things that happened today that will help us moving forward!"

Other top ten finishers include:
Women:
4. So. Paige Parker 21:55
5. So. Abigail Kobs 21:57
7. Sr. Lexie Engstrom 22:47
Men:
7. Fr. Jonah Kiess 19:13 *Collegiate Debut
9. Fr. Baily Chabot 19:46 *Collegiate Debut

The Trailblazers head to Marion, IN on September 6th for their next meet at Indiana Wesleyan University. 

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