The site of the state cross country championships was Jefferson City, but by the end of Saturday, the competition had a distinct Jefferson County feel.
The Festus boys won their fourth straight Class 3 state championship at the Oak Hills Golf Course. The Tigers tied College Heights Christian (2007-2010) for the third longest consecutive titles streak in state history. Festus finished with 55 points. Warrensburg came in second with 82 points. Herculaneum was third with 97 points.
About an hour before the Festus boys ran, the Festus girls claimed their second state championship by edging out Jefferson County Activities Association rival Herculaneum 108-110. The Festus boys and girls also won state titles together in 2014. The Blackcats made some history of their own by setting a state record with their 14th consecutive finish in the top four.
The Festus boys have won six state titles under head coach Bryant Wright since 2009. The six state crowns ties the Tigers for fourth overall.
After finishing fourth his first two years at state, Festus junior Max McDaniel had the highest individual finish among county runners, checking in at second in 15:15.10. On the girls side, Herculaneum junior Nautica Stricklin had her best state finish in third in 19:34.84. Teammate Emily Enghauser came in fifth in 19:38.40; Enghauser was 22nd last year.
For a complete wrap of Saturday’s cross country championships, read Thursday’s Leader.