The McQuaid Invitational is the nation’s largest high school-sponsored cross country meet. This year’s meet drew over 267 schools and 7,000 total runners.

The varsity girls race saw the Knights finish 24th out of 33 teams. Laney Belcher finished in 59th place and Izzy Grosch 89th in the field of 319 runners. Both girls placed high enough to earn a ribbon. Also competing for Eisenhower were Lainey Font (152nd), Callie Delp (171st), Bryn Lindell (209th), Haley Ferrie (240th) and Addy Britt (287th).

The Knights varsity boys team ran well and finished in 15th place out of 50 teams. Out of the 384 runners, Parker McBride paced the squad, finishing in 70th place and earning a ribbon. Joseph Fanelli finished in 105th, Alex Lund 107th and Mason Britt 138th. Also competing for the Knights were Brice Ludwick (177th), Carson Ferman (257th) and Jonathan Bogniak (375th).

“We’ve been running in this invitational for a lot of years and it is always one of the highlights of the season for our athletes,” Eisenhower head coach Darlene Beach said. “We appreciate everyone who supported us to be able to make the trip. Competing in an invitational of this size is a great experience for the kids. Although at times, it can seem a bit overwhelming (such as at the start of the race), it brings out some great performances.”

Benny Matson

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In junior high action, Josie Elms continued her strong season, finishing in 13th place out of 271 runners, earning a medal. Kaylee Ferino (33rd) and Hanna Lund (45th) also earned medals, and Naveen Mead (89th) placed high enough to be rewarded with a ribbon.

The boys junior high Knights had two very high finishers out of the 338 runners competing. Cameron Lindell (fifth) and Benny Matson (ninth) each earned a medal and a T-shirt on the day. Teammates Dylan Shaffer (118th) and Zachary Ayles (144th) ran well for the Knights.

The Knights compete again Tuesday when they travel to Warren to take on the Dragons for a 4 p.m. Region 4 start time.