Junior Owen Likins and sophomore Fezeka Barnes advanced to the regional cross country meet after faring well in the district meet in Mount Pleasant on Oct. 9.

Likins is looking to build off of his previous state meet appearance. He placed 14th at the regional meet last year.

“The district meet is always competitive,” Likins said. “So, qualifying for regionals is always super exciting.”

Barnes finished ninth at the district meet. She has emerged as a rising star on the cross country team over the year.

“I felt that I ran really strong throughout the race,” Barnes said. “For a few moments in the race, I had doubt, but with the support of my team, coaches and parents, I pushed through to finish in the top ten.”

Both will prepare vigorously for the regional meet in the upcoming weeks. They plan to work hard early in the week then taper off and rest before next Monday’s races.

“Each race gives me a better perspective on how to improve my race for the next time I run,” Barnes said. “Running at district has given me more confidence in my ability for regionals.”

The two runners will compete at the regional meet in Arlington on Oct. 21 and 22.