When Tanner Smith of Zeeland West and Avery Engbers of Holland Christian crossed the finish line at the Bulldog Invitational on October 3, they turned back to cheer on every runner still coming through. It’s a ritual their coach insists on, a moment of solidarity that brings their teams together beyond the race itself.
Smith, who finished with a time of 15 minutes and 21 seconds, broke the Zeeland West school record at the meet. “It means a lot. That was my goal to get this year,” he said. Smith credited staying with the lead pack for keeping his pace steady and his confidence high during the race. He added that breaking the record is a boost heading into conference and regional meets, with hopes of reaching the state competition.
Smith’s drive is partly inspired by his older brother, Keagan, who won the OK Black Conference title last year. “I want to win the conference and continue what my brother did last year,” Tanner said. His father, Matt, helps coach the team, providing a family connection that Tanner says has shaped his approach.
On the girls’ side, Avery Engbers ran 17:36.2 to set a new Holland Christian school record, surpassing the mark set a decade ago by state champion Kayla Windemuller, who clocked 17:38.1. Engbers, a junior, said it was meaningful to eclipse Windemuller’s time, especially since they had worked together during track season. “I was faster in my second mile. I didn’t drop off and was able to hang with some girls,” she said.
Engbers has been among the top runners in Michigan for three years, but the strength of her teammates has helped spread the pressure. Holland Christian is currently ranked number one in Division 2. “It is super fun to have girls to run with who are super fast to work out with,” she said. “It is really cool to see the growth and it takes the pressure off. If someone doesn’t have their best race, there are others who can pick up the slack.”
Both Smith and Engbers are known for their sportsmanship, waiting at the finish line to celebrate every competitor. Smith explained it’s part of their coach’s philosophy to support teammates and rivals alike. “Our coach's rule is to try to wait for everyone to cross the line, just helping them finish the race,” he said. “It really helps our team come together.”
Their gestures of encouragement reflect a wider team spirit that extends beyond individual achievements. As Smith high-fived runners behind him, Engbers cheered on her teammates who crossed the line after her.
The Bulldog Invitational has become a stage for these rising stars to make their mark, but also a place where the communal aspect of cross country stands out. Both athletes’ performances were among the fastest in their schools’ histories, signaling strong seasons ahead.
Smith’s record-breaking run and Engbers’ new school best came as their teams continue to build momentum in the OK Black Conference. With conference meets approaching, both runners said their recent performances have given them confidence but also a clear sense of the work still to come.
According to Yahoo Sports.
