The WRA Girls Cross Country team competed on Saturday, October 4, at the prestigious Legends Meet, held at the Trumbull County Fairgrounds. Known for its fast and flat terrain, the course promised strong times—but the day brought a different kind of challenge. With temperatures soaring above 80 degrees and the dirt paths turning to dust under the feet of nearly 300 runners, the Pioneers faced one of their toughest meets of the season.

Despite the heat, WRA rose to the occasion, battling through the elements to finish 18th out of 34 varsity teams—a strong result against a deep and talented field. Eight of the schools finishing ahead of WRA are currently ranked among Ohio's Top 20 in Divisions II, III, or IV, and the Pioneers outpaced two programs ranked in the Top 50 for Division III—the division WRA would compete in if OHSAA-affiliated.

Sophomore Kobi Marsden '28 once again led the team, placing 66th in 22:31.3, a strong performance in grueling conditions. Juniors Ellie Flores '27 and Leah Petras '27 ran side by side for much of the race before Flores pulled away in the final half mile, finishing 86th (23:22.0) and 100th (23:32.1), respectively. Caroline West '27 crossed in 24:17.7 (119th), while Colleen McAlonie '27 rounded out WRA's scoring with a 25:16 (141st)—a seven-second personal best despite the heat and dust.

It was a day that tested toughness and perseverance more than speed, and the Pioneers once again proved they could compete with the best in the state. The experience at Legends will serve as valuable preparation as WRA enters the final stretch of its season.