The 2022 CHS cross country season got under way for the Camden Lions last week at the Dresden Invitational on Tuesday, Aug. 16. After a long, hot summer, the athletes were treated to light rain and low 70’s temperatures to race on one of the toughest West Tennessee 5K courses. The top 25 individuals and top three teams received awards.
The girls’ varsity 5K race saw the debut of five Camden freshmen, with Kayedence Christopher leading the way for the Lions with her 14th place finish in 24:20. Sophomore Emma Pierce medaled in 21st place with a 25:46 finish. The final three scorers, Katlin Martin, Alyssa Travis, and Maribel Conchas came in as a tight pack with only one second separating their finish times. The Lady Lions placed second as a team in a strong Region 7 field.
The boys’ varsity 5K also saw two Camden freshmen make a big team impact. Senior Will Douglas led from the gun and won by over one minute (16:11) to claim the Fastest Boy Lions Head award for the third year in a row.
Ridge Bruce (4th, 17:37) and Pete Douglas (5th, 17:39) gave the Lions a dominant presence in the top five. Freshmen Matthew Arnold (20th, 19:59) and Kevin Knight (28th, 20:41) helped the Lions to a second-place team finish, only five points behind team winner Chester County.
Coaches Sarah Comuzie and Amber Douglas were thrilled with the team and individual results. “To open with both our girls’ and boys’ teams coming in second is a great sign for things to come this season!” said Comuzie.
The Lions compete next at the Memphis Twilight Classic on Saturday, Sept. 3.
