PAUL LUNSFORD

Contributing writer

On Oct. 3, the 13th Region cross country championship was held at Lynn Camp Elementary school for elementary and middle school divisions.

Bell County fifth-grader Tanner Simpson did not disappoint, winning the sixth-grade and under regional title in the 1,600-meter run with a time of 6:25.61. Eli Green was the only other Bell runner in the division, placing 21st with a time of 7:31.57.

“Winning a regional title at any level is a big deal and Tanner got him one today,” said Bell coach Jason Stewart. “We are expecting big things from these young men over the next several years.”

In the girls K-3 elementary division, Bell runner Aubreigh Green placed second overall with a time of 8:11.30 over the 1,600-meter course.

“Aubreigh ran so well today, I’m looking forward to next year. I think she’ll win this race,” Stewart said. “She works very hard and is so coachable.”

In the middle school division, the Bell County boys placed third overall as a team with Jacob Brannon leading the way with a fourth place finish with a time of 10:49.76.

He was followed by teammates Andrew Roy in 27th place, Doltan Warren in 28th, Eli Knuckles 29th, and Joanah Slusher in 33rd place.

“These boys had a great season,” Stewart said. “They finished 3rd in a loaded middle school field and that’s nothing to hang your head over. I know each of them will keep working and be ready for next season. They are a pleasure to coach.”