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Star Correspondent

The Elizabethton Lady Cyclones aimed to follow up their regional runner-up finish with a strong showing at the TSSAA Cross Country State Championship, held Thursday at Sanders Ferry Park in Hendersonville.

Behind another school record-breaking performance by freshman Vella Nave, the Lady Cyclones placed fifth out of 40 teams.

Nave finished fourth out of 243 girls while breaking her own record, which she has achieved three times in the 2024 season.

The previous record of 19:50, set by Lauren Pilkton in the 2018 state championship, was surpassed by Nave by 55 seconds. She finished with a time of 18:55, earning All-State honors.

Helen Hackett placed 16th, just one spot shy of earning a medal and All-State honors.

This marked the third consecutive appearance by the Lady Cyclones at the state meet.

Two Cyclones also competed as individuals: seniors Cooper Chinault and Jerry Behrmann.

It was Behrmann’s third year at the state meet and Chinault’s fourth. The two competed against 255 boys and 40 teams to conclude their high school careers.

Head coach Matthew Campbell praised his team after the race.

“I am so proud of our team and the success that they have had this year,” Campbell said.

TSSAA Cross Country Championship Results DI-AA/A
5,000-Meter Run — Girls
Arvella Nave — 4th, 18:55.33 (season best)
Helen Hackett — 16th, 20:06.27 (season best)
Jasey Hyatt — 55th, 21:42.64 (season best)
Jane Hackett — 69th, 22:07.20
Madeline Isaacs — 99th, 22:55.16
Grace Artz — 135th, 23:54.42 (season best)

5,000-Meter Run — Boys
Jerry Behrmann — 36th, 17:08.09
Cooper Chinault — 71st, 17:53.70