PHS Cross Country competes at Greater Lansing Cross Country Championship

The Portland Girls and Boys Cross Country teams were back in action this week at the highly anticipated Greater Lansing Cross Country Championship, held at Ledge Meadows Golf Course. With 38 schools competing and hundreds of runners in attendance, the meet served as both a competitive test and a welcome change in weather. After weeks of running in heat, the cooler temperatures provided ideal racing conditions, helping some Portland athletes achieve Season Records (SRs) and Personal Records (PRs).

The girls kicked off the day in a field of 209 runners. Leading the way for Portland was Paige Weber, who ran a strong 21:10. Close behind was Lauren Spitzley, clocking in at 22:42, shaving 18 seconds off her season best. Veda Smith had an outstanding performance with a 53-second PR, finishing in 23:40.

Rounding out the team’s scoring were Claire Lyon with a 24-second SR at 25:22, and Willa Almy, who also ran a SR with a 28:00, improving by 41 seconds. Abby Seavey continued the trend, setting a 23-second SR at 28:01, while Peyton Rockey ran a strong 31:35 effort to complete the Portland lineup.

Roughly 40 minutes later, the boys stepped up in a highly competitive field of 238 runners. Portland was led by a dynamic 1–2 punch: Andrew Feldpausch clocked an impressive 16:59, closely followed by Owen Moore at 17:04. Both athletes ran excellent races, staying close from start to finish.

Donnie Richmond crossed the line at 17:59, with James Feldpausch not far behind, running a 27-second PR with his 19:06 finish. Tanner McNair rounded out the scoring five with a solid 20:56. Also competing with determination were Aiden Espinoza (22:12) and Noah Huffine (23:56), both giving it their all on the fast course.

The Raiders will return to action next Wednesday at the final CAAC White Jamboree, held at Country Mill Orchard and Cider Mill in Charlotte. This marks the last league meet of the season. The girls race begins at 5:00 PM, followed by the boys at 5:40 PM. Come out and support the team as they finish strong in league competition!