The rolling hills and wide lanes of the Gans Creek Cross Country Course served as the proving ground Saturday for the Palmyra Panthers, who lined up against some of the most competitive programs in the region at the 2025 Gans Creek Classic.
With more than 340 runners in some varsity races, this wasn’t just a meet—it was a gauntlet. And yet, the Panthers showed up with determination, heart, and team pride that shone through every stride.
GIRLS VARSITY BLUE RACE
Junior Audrey Reid led the charge for Palmyra’s girls squad, clocking a 22:57.30 to place 107th in a field packed with speed. Her consistent pacing and late-race surge helped her break the 23-minute mark for the first time this season, a strong indicator of her upward momentum heading into October.
Not far behind was senior Delaina Meyer, whose steady effort earned her 147th place with a time of 24:11.50. Meyer, a quiet leader for the Panthers, continues to bring reliability and experience to the team.
BOYS VARSITY BLUE RACE
On the boys’ side, junior Wesley Summers was the first Panther across the line, clocking a personal season-best 18:01.30 to finish 85th. Running against a stacked varsity field, Summers held his own and gained critical experience for the postseason stretch.
Sophomore Trigg Heimer followed with a time of 18:40.70, placing 132nd, continuing his breakout season with another sub-19 performance.
Senior Jacob Summers finished in 19:54.70 for 220th, while junior Berhett Lorenson wasn’t far behind, placing 251st with a 20:20.80. Both athletes demonstrated grit and focus on a course known for wearing down even the most seasoned runners.
Rounding out the varsity team were:
• Ryken Hedgpeth – 275th, 20:50.20
• Jackson Marquardt – 298th, 21:21.20
• Ashton Lovegreen – 301st, 21:32.40
• Walter Poor – 318th, 22:09.00
• Levi Miller – 327th, 23:05.80
• Matthew Salo – 344th, 27:00.20
For many of these athletes, Friday was less about place and more about progress. Several set personal or season-best marks, showing that even on one of the toughest stages, the Panthers are learning, growing, and pushing each other.
