With striking performances across Central Ohio over the past couple of weeks, fans were treated to one of the best meets of the regular season at Olentangy Berlin this weekend. The Bear Den Dash produced blistering results, with many athletes climbing the regional rankings. Between the team battle and the individual showdown, the race proved to be an excellent table-setter for what is to come in the postseason.

Berlin Bear Den Dash

Individual Champion: Mick Temple

Team Champion: Westerville North

In a thrilling clash between Pickerington North’s Mick Temple and St. Ignatius’ Maxwell Friedrich, it was Temple who pulled away for the win with an incredible finishing effort. Clocking 14:52, Temple broke the 15-minute barrier yet again, further solidifying himself as a top contender heading into November at Obetz.

In the team race, Westerville North looked every bit the part of a reigning regional champion. With a dominant victory over the rest of the field, the Warhawks once again showed they sit atop the mountain—and it will take an extraordinary effort from another squad to unseat them. All five of their scorers finished under 16:20, with two inside the top 15, leaving little chance for the competition. Behind them, Olentangy Orange, Olentangy Berlin, and Westerville Central represented Central Ohio with strong performances of their own.

Alongside the frontrunners, several breakout performances highlighted the day. Olentangy Berlin’s Vansh Sethi defended his home course with a 15:38 effort, setting a new school record in the process. Westerville Central’s Alex Hohman also shined, smashing the 16-minute barrier for the first time and finishing just one second shy of his school’s record with a 15:46. Meanwhile, Westerville North’s Khalid Guled continued his breakout season, dipping under 16 minutes for the first time while helping his team secure the victory.

Looking Ahead

With conference championship meets just two weeks away, the top teams and individuals are beginning to cement their places in the rankings. While the Bear Den Dash provided an opportunity for the best to go head-to-head, there’s still time for those who didn’t perform as hoped to turn things around before the postseason. The beauty of cross country is that no matter what has happened up to that point, every race is a new opportunity to shift momentum. With many athletes rapidly improving their fitness, expect the gutsiest efforts to rise to the surface as the postseason looms.