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7 OCMS Girls Cross-Country runners smile on the podium while holding a trophy with Coach Jason Pate standing in front, also holding a trophy.

OCMS Cross Country Girls Capture State Runner-Up Honors in Program’s First Year

Jaime Johnson

October 15, 2026

In its first year of competition, Obion County Middle School Cross Country nearly reached the top of the state, as the girls’ team finished runner-up at the state meet. The boys’ OCMS Cross Country team also made its mark, earning a 10th place finish.

The OCMS girls came within just five points of capturing the state championship, an outstanding accomplishment for a program in its inaugural season. The team’s performance showcased the determination, hard work and growth of its runners, many of whom recorded personal records during the state race.

Bella Ross led the OCMS girls with a 10th-place finish, followed by Davie Wilds in 21st place. Haegan Eaves placed 28th, and Nora Wilds finished 29th. Emrie Hicks crossed the finish line in 51st place, followed by Addie Easterwood in 60th and Lynlee Butts in 83rd. Eighth- grader Kinley Burress served as the Coach’s Assistant on race day.

In addition to finishing as State Runners-Up, the girls’ team also compiled an impressive list of championships including: Bulldog Invitational Champions, Obion County Invitational Champions, Captain’s Classic Champions, Tomcat Invitational Champions, and The Best of the West Champions.

The boys’ team earned several championships throughout its season including: Obion County Invitational Champions, Captain’s Classic Champions, and Tomcat Invitational Champions. These championships, combined with the team’s 10th-place finish at the state competition, capped an impressive first season for the program.

Coach Jason Pate praised the runners for their commitment and effort throughout the season and their performance on the state stage.

“I'm incredibly proud of what these kids have accomplished, especially in our first year as a program,” Pate said. “To have the girls finish just five points away from a state championship and the boys place 10th is a tremendous accomplishment. So many of our runners set personal records at state, which shows how hard they've worked and how much they've improved. These athletes have laid a great foundation for OCMS Cross Country, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for this program.”

The state results reflect a season of dedication, perseverance and steady improvement for the OCMS runners. The team’s performance in its inaugural season set a promising course for the future and positions OCMS Cross Country as a program to watch in the years ahead.