Shorthanded Dragons XC hits ground running

August 19, 2026 by Ken Lay

The Clinton High School cross country program is in a state of flux as the 2026 season begins, and veteran Coach Tim Kumes has hit the halls in search of runners.

“I’m leaning on our other coaches to help get some kids out,” Kumes said. “I’m hoping that kids in other sports will see that running cross country will help them with their other sports.”

For the boys, senior Cooper Bostrom returns along with senior Xander Porter. Freshman Joe Patton also enters the fray for the Dragons, who lost a key runner in Baylor Cool.

Cool transferred to Bearden after a stellar freshman campaign at Clinton that saw him qualify for the Class A state championships along with Bostrom.

For the girls, Lilian West returns after a stellar freshman campaign. Piper Bostrom is also back for the Lady Dragons, while freshman Adah Freels is looking to make an impact this season.

Newcomers who joined the team last week include Lexie Taylor, Topanga Easterday, Myla Queener, Caylin Taylor and Caroline Jones.

Kumes noted that he is still seeking athletes before the season begins Saturday, Aug. 22.

Clinton had several athletes in action Thursday night at the Coach’s Challenge at Three Ridges Golf Course in Northeast Knox County.

West led the Lady Dragons, finishing 11th with a time of 15 minutes, 55.90 seconds. Piper Bostrom came in 31st in 19:33.15, while Freels made her debut and finished 32nd in 19:58.38.

For the Dragons, Cooper Bostrom turned in a strong early-season performance, finishing fourth in 11:48.08.

Patton came in 76th with a time of 27:20.58.