By Mike Hutchens, Union City Schools Communications Director
Union City might’ve left the Region 7A-AA cross country meet without a state berth, but the Tornadoes did not come home empty-handed.
Three UC runners earned medals with Top 20 finishes as the Purple and Gold ended its 2023 season in regional competition at Westview High School.
Senior Bailey Wagoner, who made it to the state as a freshman and sophomore, wound up her final campaign with a 15th-place finish among 96 runners. Wagoner narrowly missed out on a third trip to the big stage with a time of 22:35 over the 5K course.
Freshman Briley McKinney – steady all season for the Lady Twisters – placed 18th to medal with a time of 23:03.
On the boys’ side, another frosh, Woodrow McKinnis, turned in a strong performance to finish 18th among 116 competitors and also earned a medal after being timed at 18:03.
First-year head coach Thel Taylor declared himself pleased with his team’s consistency throughout the season and the hints of promise for the future.
“We consistently earned medals at most every one of our meets,” Taylor said. “Our times were good, and I’ve seen some improvements to go along with consistent efforts. It’s my hope we can build off the good that we did this year.
“I know I learned a lot as a first-year head coach, too. I think it’s important for the kids to understand that we can’t just run during the preseason and season. We must put in the work in the offseason, as well. And I really hope we can pair with Coach (Wade) Maddox and our track program and implement some of the things he’s doing well.”
Rori Howell placed 85th (32:31) for the UC girls on Tuesday, while Rushdon Howell had a solid showing for the Tornado boys, placing 32nd with a time of 18:48.
Cory Gentry was 78th (22:09), and Tabor Hall was 101st (26:35).
Obion Central earned the girls’ team championship, while Camden claimed first place in the boys’ competition.
