A good working relationship with the school’s wrestling program has helped increase the number of athletes on the Columbus Wildcat boys cross country team this fall. Head cross country coach Steve Riley says by the end of last season, his boys’ squad consisted of two runners. Entering practice last week, Riley counted 12 boys participating in conditioning workouts for the upcoming season.

Riley adds his relationship with the district’s wrestling team has helped increase the team’s numbers, “They feel like cross country helps them to last the whole wrestling season endurance wise.” Riley said, “I am very happy they have joined us.”

Among the wrestlers who run for Riley are his returning state qualifier Josh Keller. The senior finished in 48th place in last years Class 1A race with a time of 17:56. Other wrestlers who came out for cross country this season include juniors Tucker Morrison, Armando Quiroz, Adrian Santos, and sophomore Mark Estrada.

Riley says despite the group not having much cross country experience outside of Keller, he likes their competitive nature and the athletic talent they have already shown in practice.

Columbus opens their 2015 cross country season next Tuesday competing in the Mount Vernon Invitational.