Union County High School Runners Shine at Cross Country Meet

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Union County High School's boys' cross-country team showcased their talent at a recent meet, with six runners finishing in the top 100 and earning points toward a strong team performance. The event, held on September 5, 2025, featured competitive athletes from schools across the region, but Union County's runners stood out with their impressive times and placements.

Leading the Panthers was senior Holden Payne, who crossed the finish line in fifth place with a time of 17:26.50, earning five points for the team. Payne's performance placed him among the elite, finishing just behind runners from North Hall, Lanier Christian Academy, and Cherokee Bluff High School.

Close behind, Oliver Hillman secured 27th place with a time of 18:40.21, contributing 27 points to Union County's score. Andrew Nushtayev followed in 32nd place at 18:51.70, adding 32 points, while Noah James Payne finished 45th with a time of 19:16.30, earning 43 points.

The Panthers' depth was evident as Cody Dupuis and Ander Faulkner placed 50th and 51st, respectively, with times of 19:31.30 and 19:32.30, earning 47 and 48 points. Trey Hawley rounded out the scoring runners, finishing 53rd in 19:35.60, adding 50 points.

Other Union County runners also made their mark. Cole Brown finished 66th with a time of 19:50.10, Arthur Bowman placed 80th at 20:06.70, and Jake Payne closed out the team's efforts in 100th with a time of 20:42.10. Their performances underscored the team's depth and competitive spirit.

The meet was topped by North Hall's Max Young, who claimed first place with a time of 16:39.50. Union County's strong showing, however, highlighted their potential as a team to watch this season.

Union County's cross-country team is poised for success as they continue their season. Their next meet will be the Southern Traditions Jamboree on Sept. 11 in Tallulah Falls.