The Southwood Lady Knights battled through adversity to earn a trip to Regionals with a strong 5th-place team finish at the Marion Sectional. Despite competing without key runner Elin Tyson, sidelined by injury, the Lady Knights showcased remarkable resilience and teamwork to rise to the challenge. Paige Nelson led the way for the Knights, placing 11th in 22:10.3, followed by Hailey Collins in 16th with a time of 22:33.3. Andrea Widemon finished close behind in 19th at 22:55.2, helping solidify the team’s qualifying position. Olivia Ranck added key points with her 53rd-place finish, and Grace Ranck rounded out the scoring with a new personal best of 32:43.9. The team’s determination and unity earned them a well-deserved spot in the IHSAA Regional meet — a milestone achievement for this dedicated group of runners. Although the Southwood boys were unable to field a full team at Sectionals, the trio of Knights who competed each delivered solid performances to close out their season on a high note. Jericho Corn led the way, placing 58th overall with an impressive personal best time of 20:43.0. Andrew Wright followed with a season-best effort, finishing 64th in 21:10.6 — his strongest race of the year. Blake Henderson, returning to action after an injury, showed determination in his comeback, covering the course in 24:33.1 to finish 86th. The boys demonstrated the same grit, perseverance, and commitment that define Southwood Cross Country, ending their season with pride and progress. Girls Team Scores: Oak Hill = 41 Yorktown = 62 Mississinewa = 99 Marion = 102 Southwood = 132 Frankton = 147 Muncie Central = 150 Muncie Burris = 186 Cowan = inc Alexandria Monroe = inc Daleville = inc Wes-Del = inc Blue River Valley = inc Madison Grant = inc Elwood = inc Boys Team Scores: Yorktown = 16 Oak Hill = 71 Marion = 110 Muncie Central = 131 Mississinewa = 140 Wes-Del = 170 Blue River Valley = 193 Cowan = 221 Daleville = 221 Muncie Burris = 233 Alexandria Monroe = 306 Frankton = 318 Southwood = inc Madison-Grant = inc Elwood = inc