Towns County Cross Country Runners Show Determination at North Georgia HS Championship

HIAWASSEE, Ga. — Towns County High School's cross country teams laced up for the North Georgia High School Cross Country Championship on Tuesday, Sept. 16, delivering a mix of standout individual efforts and team perseverance on the 5,000-meter course.

In the varsity girls' race, Emberlynn Williams led the charge for the Indians, crossing the finish line in 25 minutes, 28.20 seconds to secure seventh place. Williams' performance highlighted the team's depth, followed closely by Joyce Hou in 11th at 26:45.20 and Mary Durham in 13th with a time of 27:33.10. The squad rounded out with Maelei Johnstone in 24th at 37:09.80, Reilyn Gonzalez in 29th at 38:09.90, and Jamie McCarter in 30th at 38:15.70.

The boys' varsity team, competing with four runners, saw Emory Hardin anchor the group in 32nd place with a time of 24:02.70, just ahead of teammate Jason Chavero in 34th at 24:10.20. Will Walls followed in 45th at 27:41.90, while Christopher Houser brought up the rear in 51st with 34:27.60.

Although overall team scores were not immediately available, the runners' efforts underscored Towns County's commitment to the sport amid a competitive field of North Georgia schools. Coaches praised the athletes for their grit on the challenging terrain.

The event, part of the regional high school cross country circuit, drew participants from across the area, with Union County getting the win in both divisions.