The Jackson-Milton Varsity Cross Country team kicked off their season at the competitive HOKA Kickoff Classic XC Showcase at Painesville Riverside, racing against strong Division I–III programs.

The girls’ team had a solid showing. Nora Schwarten led the way with a 37th-place finish in 20:59.33, while Abby Bueno ran a personal best of 21:54.53, finishing 66th. Addison Ferenczy competed in the black division and ran a steady 34:13.62.

The boys’ team placed 22nd out of 43 teams. Benjamin Bacorn led the Blue Jays with a career-best time of 18:29.04, followed by Landon Fortunato (18:46.43 PB), Nate Craver, Cleyten Graham, Jonny Bacon, Wesley Schwarten, and Joshua Theis, several of whom were racing varsity for the first time.

Coach Sheeley reflected, “Our 5-man average time is 18:27.06. We’ve created a fun and exciting environment for our runners. It’s always great to see the reaction when someone hits a personal best. We’re working on building endurance and speed—especially for the second half of races. Our biggest competition this year has been Maplewood, McDonald, and Rootstown as we approach Districts.”

With strong leadership, promising new talent, and a focus on improvement, the Blue Jays are running full speed into a competitive season.

Wesley Schwarten and Cleyten Graham quote, “ I like cross country because I get to run with my friends.”