Loyd Star senior Gauge Montgomery showed his dominance in the MHSAA 2A cross-country state championship by winning back-to-back titles. Montgomery finished with a time of 17 minutes and 12 seconds on the 5K course at Choctaw Trails, nearly a minute ahead of the second-place finisher from St. Andrew’s Episcopal. His victory secured his second consecutive state championship, showcasing his dedication and skill in the sport.
The Loyd Star cross-country team, led by coach Rusty Newman, finished third overall in a field of 12 schools and 84 total runners. Freshman Jackson Jumper of SAE came in second place with a time of 18:01, highlighting the competitive nature of the race. Montgomery’s consistent performance and unwavering focus allowed him to excel in the championship and secure the top spot once again.
Montgomery’s journey to success began as a sophomore when he finished second overall at the state meet. His passion for the sport drove him to improve and push himself to become a state champion. Despite facing challenges such as juggling a job and extra training, Montgomery’s determination paid off as he claimed his second consecutive title.
Looking ahead, Montgomery plans to continue his running career at the collegiate level at Blue Mountain State, showcasing his commitment to the sport and his aspirations for the future. The Loyd Star team also had strong performances from freshman Carson Sellers, eighth grader Brooklyn Lee, and junior Kaelin Clark, demonstrating the depth of talent within the program.
In addition to Loyd Star’s success, West Lincoln senior Hayden Skates and freshman Jacob Jones delivered solid performances, finishing in the top rankings. The Bears team, under the guidance of coach Jay Case, displayed their competitive spirit and determination throughout the race, finishing seventh overall as a team.
The MHSAA 2A cross-country state championship was a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the athletes involved. Montgomery’s back-to-back win reflects his skill and commitment to the sport, setting a high standard for future competitions. As the season comes to a close, the athletes can look back on their achievements with pride and use them as motivation for future success in their running careers.
