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White’s all-state honors highlights Kelly’s solid state meet performance
COLUMBIA, Mo. — Kelly had a solid showing at the MSHSAA Class 2 State Meet at Gans Creek Cross Country Course on Saturday, Nov. 9, highlighted by senior Truman White’s All-State performance.
White’s 28th-place finish, clocking in at 17 minutes and 57.50 seconds, not only secured All-State honors but also shattered a 15-year drought, making him the first Kelly runner to earn this distinction since 2008 when Cody Kern and Tara Johnson achieved similar accolades.
“He made a big accomplishment not just for himself but also for his school,” said Kelly coach Omar Campos.
White, who entered the state meet with the goal of finishing in the top 30 and earning All-State honors, executed his race plan to perfection.
“I wanted to get out early and try to keep up with the main pack,” he explained.
White’s performance is a testament to his dedication and the support system that has surrounded him throughout his high school career. He credits cross country with shaping him into a hardworking individual, instilling in him the perseverance needed to excel.
“Cross country has made me into a hardworking person who knows what it takes,” White reflected, acknowledging the mental challenges of the sport and the invaluable support from his family, coaches, teammates, and community.
Cross country is more than just a sport for White; it is a transformative experience that has molded his character. The mental toughness required to compete at such a high level is not easily acquired.
“I wouldn’t be who I am today without the people who have supported me all these years,” he said, highlighting the collective effort behind his success.
Kelly’s success at the state meet was not limited to White.
Sophomore Brody Oesch also qualified for the state meet, finishing 74th with a time of 19:18.40. His performance, while not earning All-State honors, demonstrated the potential and depth within the program.
Oesch had previously shared his thoughts after the district meet, saying, “Well, our coaches did a really good job throughout the race letting me know where I am. The most challenging part was trying to make sure I qualify but trying to do as much as I can for the team.”
On the girls’ side, senior Sarah Thurmond represented Kelly, finishing 95th with a time of 23:04.20.
Thurmond’s journey to the state meet was marked by perseverance and determination. Reflecting on her district performance, she said, “My coaches and peers did a very good job at letting me know what place I was in through the entire race. It was the last 400 meters or so when it got surreal that I was finally making it after three years of not qualifying.”
As Kelly’s team looks ahead, they can be proud of the legacy left by seniors like White and Thurmond. The program’s future is bright, with promising young runners like Oesch ready to step up and continue the tradition of excellence.