Cross-country racing returned to Central Ohio this past weekend as many of the region's top individuals and teams took to the courses for the first time in 2025. Pickerington North and Big Walnut hosted some of Central Ohio’s best returning programs, showcasing strong performances for late August. While the weekend revealed plenty of standout teams and competitors, fans are still left with questions about how the season will unfold. Either way, the stage has been set for an exciting 2025 campaign.

Pickerington North XC Classic

Individual Champion: Mick Temple

Team Champion: New Philadelphia

Starting his season in style, Mick Temple defended his home course with a dominant victory in 15:05. Temple enters the season as the top returning runner from the region and has his eye on returning to this course in October to claim the regional crown. It’s a strong opening statement from Temple, one he’ll look to build on in the coming weeks as he chases the sub-15 barrier.

Another Central Ohio standout was Gordon Kimberly of Olentangy Liberty, who finished third in 15:32. Kimberly will be aiming to close the gap on Temple in the weeks ahead while also leading his team to strong showings. Meanwhile, New Albany sophomore Austin Benedict proved his breakout freshman season was no fluke. He placed sixth overall in 15:47 and looks primed to compete with the best in the region moving forward.

On the team side, New Philadelphia took the title by placing three runners in the top ten. Westerville North followed in a close second, an impressive performance after losing two of its top three from last year. Casey Carlos led the way with a 15:56, while juniors Charlie Bosler, Gregory Kerns, and Holden Gray provided key support. The Warriors remain a team to watch as they chase back-to-back regional championships.

Big Walnut Eagle Twilight

Individual Champion: Michael Kinzer

Team Champion: Thomas Worthington

A brand-new meet this season, the Big Walnut Eagle Twilight offered a fast alternative to the Pickerington North Classic. Dublin Scioto’s Michael Kinzer claimed the inaugural title in 15:33, solidifying himself as one of Division II’s top runners. Thomas Worthington freshman phenom Calvin Watson impressed with a runner-up finish in 15:45, making him one of the fastest freshmen in the nation.

Thomas Worthington dominated the team race, led by Watson along with Rishi Jha, Wesley Nash, Fraser Kirk, and Riley Greco. Westerville Central earned runner-up honors thanks to the strong trio of Alex Hohman, Corbin Morrissey, and Andrew Gould.

Other Notable Action

The Lancaster boys traveled to Centerville for Saturday Night Lights, where Brock Jarrett opened his season in 16:18. Gabe McNeil, last track season’s BRR Rising Star, made his long-awaited cross-country debut with a 16:27. Jayden Beverly also turned in a sharp 16:04 at SNL.

Olentangy Berlin competed at the GlenOak Golden Eagle Invitational, highlighted by Vansh Sethi’s solid 16:13 on a challenging course. Meanwhile, Gahanna Lincoln cruised to an easy team victory at the Dan Reid Invitational, rounding out an action-packed opening weekend for Central Ohio cross country.

Overall, the opening weekend provided a mix of breakout performances and familiar dominance, setting the tone for an exciting fall. With early questions beginning to take shape and new contenders emerging, Central Ohio cross country fans can expect plenty of drama and fast racing as the season unfolds.