Last weekend, both Lincoln cross country teams fared well at one of the top meets in the region, as the Bulldogs finished as the highest-placing small school in a loaded multi-state field.

The girls were 14th overall, while the boys finished 16th as a team.

"It was a privilege to get the race on the beautiful manicure course at Oklahoma State," said Lincoln head coach Stephen Lewelling. "Known as the hardest course in the nation, our team stepped up to the challenge and had a great day."

The Bulldogs took on the course, which is full of elevation, and performed well amongst the top-tier competition.

"The hills are unlike anywhere else and it's nothing really you can prepare for other than being mentally strong and trusting in your training," said Lewelling.

The boys and girls each beat projections, as both team's performed well and were able to run collectively faster than in 2025. 

"Going into the meet we were projected 20th for the boys and 16th for the girls and both teams over achieved from the team perspective," said Lewelling. "Also, on average every kid was 21 seconds faster than last year on that course."

"I love to see that kind of progression because it's meaningful as far as our training schedule and seeing the growth."

Isabella Ramirez was the top girls finisher, as she ran 19:52 to finish 27th overall.

Bentley Stewart was 32nd for Lincoln individually after funning 20:11. Izzy Truitt finished in the top 50 at 46th overall with a time of 20:23.

Noah Caughey was the top boys finisher, as he placed 14th overall with a time of 16:18.

Ty Brooks was 22nd for Lincoln, running 16:28.

The girls finished as the 4th best team from Oklahoma in the event, while the boys were the 6th best team from in state.

Not a lot of time will pass before another big event for Lincoln, which takes place this weekend in Arkansas.

Lincoln will travel to the annual Chile Pepper Festival, which is held in Fayetteville and is the largest event in the nation.

"The beauty of running well there it gives you perspective on what's possible," Lewelling said. "Now this weekend will be going to Chile Pepper which is fast and flat but it's a big two week stretch in our schedule."

The boys are looking for the program's 5th straight title and will hope to do so in Class 3A after dropping down. The program has won nine state championships — all since 2014.

The girls hope to win their 4th in a row, this time in 3A after also dropping down. The program has won five state titles — all since 2016.

"Now three weeks away from state we're gearing up for our biggest time of the year," said Lewelling. "The team looks strong and confidence is high. We have four of the top five girls and 3A and two of the top five boys."

Regionals will be Saturday, Oct. 17 with state the following week on Saturday, Oct. 24.

"Both team teams are ranked number one and I believe we should have a strong close to the year."