Preview of the 2024 CHSL Cross Country Cardinal Championship

The Catholic High School League (CHSL) Cross Country Cardinal Championship is set to take place this Friday, October 18, at Willow Metro Park. The meet promises to be an exciting one, featuring new and returning talent from across the league. With races scheduled for the boys at 4:30 p.m., the girls' varsity at 5:00 p.m., and the JV boys and girls at 5:30 p.m., the competition will be fierce, as athletes look to secure their place in CHSL history.

This year, a new champion will emerge on both the boys' and girls' sides. Last year’s dominant team, Lumen Christi, competed in the Bishop Championship, leaving the field wide open for another team to rise to the top.

On the boys' side, all eyes will be on Abenezer Cerone of Shrine Catholic. After finishing second in last year’s race, Cerone is eager to improve his standing and claim the top spot this year. His speed and determination have made him one of the top contenders to watch. Another team to keep an eye on is Greenhills, which finished second last year and will undoubtedly push for a stronger performance this time around.

For the girls, Reagan Lees of St. Catherine of Siena is the top returning runner. She finished fifth in last year’s championship and will be looking to better that performance on Friday. Her experience and focus make her a strong contender for a top finish. Shrine's girls’ team, which finished second in 2023, will also be aiming for victory, hoping to take advantage of the wide-open field in Lumen Christi's absence.

The picturesque Willow Metro Park course is known for its scenic but challenging terrain, providing the perfect backdrop for a championship showdown. With new champions set to be crowned, the 2024 CHSL Cross Country Cardinal Championship is shaping up to be an exciting event for athletes and fans alike.

Be sure to join us on Friday afternoon as the region’s top Catholic school runners race toward glory in what promises to be a thrilling display of endurance, strategy, and heart.