Chase and Chandler Kennedy fly downhill with Sam Ellis in pursuit (photo by Daniel McCauley)
The race for the Individual title depended on if anyone would go out with Chase and Chandler Kennedy from East Jackson as the twins swept the top 2 places in 2014 almost leading the Eagles to a state title. The duo repeated their performance from last Fall going 1-2 with Chase separating from Chandler later in the race, winning in 17:07 with Chandler going 17:21. A similar gap had Sam Ellis of Decatur HS back in 3rd crossing the finish for 3rd Overall in 17:35. Rounding out the All-State squad not mentioned below were: Walt Douglas from Coahulla Creek 6th (18:02) with team mate Bryce Jones 10th (18:09) and Addison Cochran from Jefferson HS 9th (18:04).
Its all greenage for Chase Kennedy as he strolls to his 2nd GHSA XC title. (photo by Daniel McCauley)
Much antipicated race to see if any team could push Blessed Trinity for the team title. As expected, the Titans were too tough scoring 49 points with 2 making the All-State squad. Leading the way as they had much of the Fall were Jr Ben McCoy in 4th posting a 17:40 and Sr Robby Gipson 7th at 18:04. Helping on the backside were Brennan O'Connor 11th and Leo Pryor 12th. Oconee County finished a great season with their best effort at State since 2004-2005 capturing runnerup honors and besting their 'kryptonite' from that era (Westminster) The Warriors top harrier Michael Hans made the All-State squad placing 5th in 17:55. Key for Oconee though was their 2-4 runners who had a Split of :20, including Jake Hadden (13th), Issac Krumm (18th) and Harrison Morris (19th). Westminster did secure 3rd 16 points back led by freshman Peter Huff's 8th place effort of 18:04. East Jackson as mentioned above were 4th as a team led by the Kennedys.
Peter Huff (L) and Robby Gibson literally 'screamed' approaching the finish line with Addison Cochran close behind (photo by Daniel McCauley)