September 13, 2025 – Palmyra, MO
On a hot and sunny morning at Flower City Park, the Clark County cross country team showed heart and resilience at the 2025 Palmyra Invitational. With temperatures rising early and the sun beating down on the winding, hilly course, it was senior Mason McDaniel who led the way with a dominant performance in the boys’ 5K. McDaniel crossed the finish line in 16:55.83, earning first place overall and setting the tone for a strong day from the Indians.
In the girls’ race, Lillian Shaffer ran a steady and determined race to finish 16th with a time of 26:12.19, pacing the Lady Indians through the tough heat. She was followed closely by Madison Boyd in 23rd place at 27:17.29, and Presley Ames, just behind in 24th with a time of 27:30.71. Maci Hopp clocked in at 29:17.52 for 31st, while Cora Phillips battled through the final stretch to place 46th in 34:35.54. Despite the heat, the girls packed well and stayed competitive throughout the race.
On the boys’ side, McDaniel’s victory was backed by a solid team showing. Malaki Phillips ran an impressive race to place 9th in 19:08.04, staying composed in the warm conditions. Quintin Roach turned in a 23rd-place finish at 20:41.76, with Grant Smeltser close behind in 27th at 20:56.99. Braedyn Clark finished in 56th at 23:25.49, while Silas Harmon and Nathan Shotts placed 61st and 72nd, with times of 24:23.29 and 25:34.27, respectively. The boys’ squad showed grit from top to bottom, navigating the heat and challenging terrain with determination.
