Girls Cross Country is off to a strong start, with varsity girls taking medals in every race so far.

Emma Mueller (12) and Mackenzie Montandon (11) both medaled at the Lutheran South Invitational that took place in Jefferson Barracks Park, which was the first race of the season on Aug. 30. Out of 63 runners, Montandon placed at fourth along with Emma placing at 12th.

OHS head cross country coach Kevin Niedringhaus believes both Mueller and Montandon can do well in the postseason. “Definitely sectionals and a chance at state,” he said.

Montandon ran the 5k course on Aug. 30 with a time of 22 minutes, 31 seconds, and she was happy with her time, “It surprised me,” she admitted, and now has confidence of making sectionals this year for the first time. Last year as a sophomore, Montandon just fell short of making sectionals.

On Sept. 13 OHS ran at Parkway Central, and Montandon was the only OHS runner to medal at 13th place.

Mueller was given the role of team captain this season. She’s very excited to see new girls join this season: freshman Alexis Francisco, and sophomores Aurora Baker and Brenna Breitenstein. Last year Mueller was one of two OHS girls to move on to sectionals. Using her experience to make sectionals once more, then hopefully moving onto state with Montandon.

The girls will race next at Jefferson Barracks during the Hancock Invitational on Saturday Sept. 29.