On Friday afternoon, Sept. 17, the Beavers lined up to race on Cedarville's cross country course at the 2021 All-Ohio Championship Race. While there was a varsity and an open race that day, both Bluffton's men's and women's teams competed in the varsity race. The hot mid-day weather, gradual hills and little shade made for a tough race.

Kicking off the meet was the Men's 8k Varsity race. First across the line for the Beavers was sophomore Ethan Ly (Celina) with a time of 31:47. Following Ly were a pair of freshmen, Braeden Horn (Galion) with a time of 32:08 and Cole Kropka (New London) with a time of 32:11.

Following the men's competition, the gun sounded for the start of the women's 6k varsity race. Finishing first for the Beavers was freshman Brooklyn Gates (Galion) with a time of 27:03. Following Gates were sophomore Miranda Billman (Castalia/Margaretta) with a time of 27:29 and freshman Clara Matthews (Bluffton) with a time of 27:59.

Head Coach Scott Black commented on the Beaver's grit, saying, "Despite tough conditions with the heat, as well as some adversity and uncertainty faced during the week, the teams went out, battled, and showed a lot of toughness."

The Beavers continue their training in preparation for the Tiffelberg Open at Seneca Hills Golf Course on Friday, Oct. 1.