Harrison Central opens cross-country season at HOKA Kickoff Classic

Harrison Central opened its cross-country season Saturday, Aug. 23, at the HOKA Kickoff Classic Cross-Country Showcase at Riverside High School.

Billed as the “Ultimate Cross-Country Kickoff Under the Lights,” the event features illuminated courses, a stadium finish and a carnival-like atmosphere with food trucks, music and giveaways. This year’s showcase drew about 3,500 registered runners, roughly 500 more than in 2024, with races capped at 300 to 360 athletes and a 35-minute time limit.

“The meet at HOKA Kickoff at Riverside was very challenging,” Harrison Central head coach Doug Drapp said. “All of our kids ran well, but no personal best times were established. This event has always been a good way to kick off the season.”

Michael Abel led the Huskies with a time of 20:36. Other results included Bryce Sobleski at 23:50, Aubrie Moss at 25:18, Lillian Renner at 30:41 and Sophie Bland at 34:23.

Harrison Central will compete Aug. 27 at East Canton and Aug. 30 at Newcomerstown. The team will host its first home meet Sept. 3 at 4:30 p.m., travel to Dover on Sept. 6 and return home Sept. 10.