Country School Runners Shine Through Snow at USATF National Championships

The United States Track & Field National Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships unfolded yesterday at the storied Blue River Cross Country Course in Indianapolis, Indiana—under conditions that tested far more than speed. 

A snowstorm swept across the rolling hills and frozen grasses, demanding fortitude, bravery, and resolve from the thousands of young runners who had qualified from every corner of the country.

Against that backdrop, Country School athletes delivered one of the strongest national performances in the school’s history.

The day began early with the youngest competitors braving the elements. Seven-year-old Simon Ouellet opened the meet in the 2000-meter race, navigating the snow-covered course with composure. Simon ran a personal best, finishing third in New England and first in Connecticut, a standout achievement at the national level and a thrilling start to the day.

Momentum continued to build in the older divisions. Veteran Junior Olympian Lexie Killam took on a massive field of 247 runners, racing with confidence and control over 3000 meters to earn her first place in New England and an impressive 41st overall finish nationally, a testament to her grit under extreme conditions.

Next up was Liv Killam, also a seasoned Junior Olympian and one of next year’s cross-country captains. Competing in a field of more than 300 runners, Liv delivered another commanding 3000 meter performance, finishing first in New England and 29th in the United States. 

Team captain Maddie Staib followed in the 4000-meter race, where she powered through the deep snow to finish second in Connecticut. Running as part of the Danbury Hatters Track Club, Maddie helped lead her five-person team to a seventh-place finish in the United States, out of nearly 100 teams. That result—7th nationally overall—marks the best team performance at this age level in Country School history.

One of the most inspiring moments of the day came from Country School alumnus Luke Schupp, now running for and studying at Avon Old Farms and a former cross-country captain. Battling the same brutal conditions, Luke surged through the 3” snow to finish 10th in the United States in his age group, earning All-American Junior Olympics honors—a fitting capstone to an outstanding cross-country season.

In total, four additional Country School students qualified for the national championships but were unable to make the trip, an achievement in itself and a reminder of the depth of talent within the program.

The Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships represent the pinnacle of youth distance running in the United States, drawing thousands of athletes from all 50 states who advance through rigorous regional qualification. To compete—let alone excel—at this level requires months of preparation, resilience, and belief.

As the snow settled in Indianapolis, Country School runners proved they belonged on the national stage. With many now turning their focus to indoor track and preparations for the outdoor season ahead, this championship weekend stands as both a celebration and a powerful springboard for what comes next.