Clifford H. Smart Middle School girls’ cross country team makes history at Oakland County Championships

The Clifford H. Smart Middle School girls’ cross country team was clicking on all cylinders on Friday at Kensington Metropark claiming its first Oakland County Championship in program history.

The Trojans took first place beating out 31 other teams competing at the championships and avenging their runner-up finish from a year ago. Quinn Blewitt was Smart’s top finisher taking 7th overall, earning All-County honors. Kara Alt (17th), Ava Montante (18th), Addy Atwood (22nd), and Jovie Rickens (24th) also received All-County medals.

“We knew last year after finishing second at the Oakland County Meet that this could be the year to finally win it,” said head coach Alex Rickens. “This win shows the dedication and drive of these girls who attended summer practices, optional practices and ran on their own over the weekend.”

“After winning the first regional title last year, this is just the cherry on top for a program that has been growing since 2019 to become a top contender in the county and the state when they go to Walled Lake Northern,” added Rickens. “Coach Karbowski and myself are so proud of these girls to achieve two ‘firsts’ for the district, and we always look forward to going to practice to work with the team and help these runners achieve their goals.”

The Trojan boys also earned a spot on the podium in third place, which was their first Top 3 finish since 2019. Anders Olson (21st), Will Neal (23rd), and Zeke Turnbough (30th) earned All-County honors.