Northeast Ohio Runners Shine at OHSAA State Cross Country Championships

The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) state cross country championships took place on November 4, 2023, at Fortress Obetz and Memorial Park in Obetz, Ohio. This prestigious event saw the top runners from across the state competing for All-Ohio honors. In total, the top 40 runners in Division I and the top 48 in Divisions II through IV achieved this recognition.

Several standout athletes from Northeast Ohio demonstrated exceptional performance, securing their places among the best in the state. Notably, **Matthew Penkowski** from Mentor was among the top finishers, clocking in at **15:45.26**, which earned him the 15th spot in Division I. Following closely was **Christopher Bohm** from St. Edward, who finished 23rd with a time of **15:57.04**.

In addition to these outstanding senior runners, **Carter Schaubert** from Mentor also made the list, finishing 40th with a time of **16:07.85**.

The girls’ divisions showcased impressive performances as well. **Kassadi Thompson** from Cleveland Heights led the Northeast Ohio contingent with a time of **18:34.33**, securing the 20th position in Division I. **Maddie O’Brien** from Stow-Munroe Falls followed with a strong 31st place finish, completing the race in **19:02.41**.

The achievements of these athletes reflect the growing talent and competitive spirit within the region. Other notable runners include **Donevan Noah** from Tallmadge, who achieved a remarkable time of **15:42.34**, finishing 8th overall in Division I.

Other participants from the area included:

– **Caleb Neville**, Cloverleaf, Sr., 18th place, **16:05.91**
– **Al Ali**, Copley, Sr., 24th place, **16:11.92**
– **Aiden Flynn**, Nordonia, Jr., 30th place, **16:18.44**
– **Bradley Schuster**, Hudson, Sr., 34th place, **16:20.02**
– **Matthew Collins**, Kenston, Jr., 44th place, **16:25.03**

In the girls’ divisions, additional standout performances included:

– **Makayla Martuccio**, Tallmadge, Jr., 7th place, **18:15.51**
– **Jillian Paolucci**, Hudson, Sr., 14th place, **18:39.91**
– **Olivia Keough**, Highland, Fr., 17th place, **18:45.30**
– **Caroline Valentino**, Hathaway Brown, So., 27th place, **19:01.77**
– **Isabella Schott**, Hathaway Brown, Sr., 32nd place, **19:08.80**
– **Evelyn Jenkins**, Aurora, Fr., 35th place, **19:11.68**
– **Kate Kinast**, Hudson, Fr., 43rd place, **19:13.91**

These runners’ achievements at the OHSAA state championships not only highlight their individual talents but also the support and training provided by their schools and communities. As these athletes continue to pursue their running careers, they inspire younger generations to strive for excellence in cross country and beyond.

The event showcased the rich tradition of high school athletics in Ohio, where competition fosters both personal growth and community pride.