MIFFLIN COUNTY JUNIOR HIGH CROSS COUNTRY SHOWS ITS METTLE AT PA MIDDLE SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIPS

By Kenny Varner Jr.
- Tweet
- Pin It
Updated: October 19, 2025

The Mifflin County junior high cross country teams came away with a fifth-place team finish, tenth place individual finish, and sixth personal records at the PA Middle School championships Saturday in Lock Haven.

Paced by Daliyah Bargas’ tenth overall finish in 12:12 over the two-mile course, the Husky girls claimed fifth place among the best teams in the state. Teammates Elissa Bell (12:45) and Lillen Adams (12:51) were 29th and 31st, respectively, boosting the team scoring. Maddy Yoder was 74th in 13:45, followed by Jakalya Colon in 93rd place with a PR time of 14:04, and Adalyn Lutz (14:53) in 141st place.

All three boys nailed PR’s as Levi Anderson crossed the finish line in 11:21 for 31st place, Kenneth Swartzel took 38th at 11:38, and Aiden Wible was 114th in 12:39.

Though short on competitors, Mifflin County consistently demonstrated strong will and perseverance throughout the season against teams, including those in the Mid-Penn Conference, fielding two, three and four times as many runners.

Coaches Gary Ishler and Kim Bennett want to thank the athletes for all their dedication and willingness to take on any challenge put in front of them, both during practice and on race days. Team members demonstrated a powerful work ethic and mental toughness—traits vital to success in distance running.

The coaches would also like to thank the team parents for their enthusiasm and support throughout the season.

Using this season’s success as a springboard, the junior high program is looking for more runners and depth for next year. Interested sixth and seventh graders are welcome to participate in twice weekly open runs beginning in a few weeks at Lewistown Intermediate School. Information on the start date will be announced soon.