"The question isn't who's going to let me; it's who is going to stop me." - Ayn Rand Addie Keplar and Reese Galinger, 2 exemplerary seniors and young ladies, who last week qualified for the Division One State Cross Country meet, toed the line for the last time as cross country athletes for Teays Valley High School. Cold temperature, a chilly wind, and some sentimental emotion were all on display as the girls and great friends prepared themselves at the Fortress Obetz. With teammates, family, friends, and an energetic crowd surrounding the girls each had a strategy to handle the emotion and excitement of the race, while also making sure they were competing at their highest level after the countless hours of hard work, sacrifice, and preparation that took place way before the season ever started. Both girls positioned themselves well for what their plan was in the race. Moving up throughout the race was an important goal for both girls and they executed it so well. Keeping emotions at bay, they found their spots and kept moving forward, one step, one stride, one runner at a time. Addie Keplar, perhaps the most underrated runner in school history, despite being one of the most successful and accomplished runners in the history of Teays Valley Cross Country would work her way all the way up to 44th place (19:20.4) after starting back beyond 80th place at the 1600 meter mark. A remarkable race with a strong willed strategy put her full toughness and grit on display. The two-time individual state qualifier ran with heart and passion and despite an early season injury scare that played with some of her training, truly showed how great she is and that she belonged with the best in the biggest division in the state of Ohio. Reese Galinger would employ a similar strategy. Starting controlled and methodically picking her spots across the race, Reese would pull even with the lead pack at the 3200 meter mark. After leaving the stadium to complete the last mile of the race, Reese would make her move and take the lead. The pack remind tight behind Reese, but after completing the hill, Reese opened up her lead on the very best of Ohio. And on this day, at this race, it was Reese who would be the best, as she entered the final stretch with a lead and stretched it out to six seconds, becoming the Division One State Cross Country Champion with a personal best time of 17:51! Her race strategy to perfection as she becomes the first Teays Valley Cross Country runner to win a State Championship. Achieving this great accomplishment, despite being an underdog in the race, was a testament to Reese's desire to show she truly belonged and shouldn't be doubted, a message that was a theme for her and the team throughout the 2026 cross country season. Reese now joins the elite group of Division One State Champions in Girls Cross Country. A list the includes many runners who went on to not only great success at the collegiate level, but also beyond. These two ladies represented their team and school well. They did it with the support of their teammates, friends, and family and they both gave up the good to be great, racing their race and challenging the competition and themselves to be the very best because nothing is given, only earned and they certainly earned everything. Results: https://www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/275513/results/1100465