Acorn, Ark. – On Tuesday, Legacy Academy’s cross country team kicked off its 2026 season at the Tom Stuthard Stampede, confronting extreme heat that pushed the temperature to 101 degrees and a heat index of 106 degrees. Despite the challenging conditions, the Warriors demonstrated grit and teamwork, earning a respectable fourth‑place finish overall.
Individual performances shine
Four athletes stepped onto the podium for their respective age groups. Silas Lofton, Hannah Grace Lofton, Izzy Ward and Katherine Bartek each captured medals, highlighting the depth of talent on the squad. Team captain Zury Real also stood out, providing steady leadership and encouraging her teammates throughout the grueling meet.
Coach Webb praises effort and character
Head coach Hanna Webb expressed pride in her athletes’ perseverance. “We are incredibly proud of the hard work these athletes have put in and the way they competed in such difficult conditions,” Webb said. “For our first meet of the season, they showed a lot of grit, encouraged one another, and represented Legacy Academy well. We are excited to see where this season takes them.”
Looking ahead
The strong start sets a positive tone for the remainder of the cross country season. With the senior girls team already posting a top‑four finish, Legacy Academy hopes to build on this momentum at upcoming meets across the state. The coaching staff plans to focus on conditioning and race strategy to ensure the athletes remain competitive as the season progresses.
Community members and parents gathered at the Tom Stuthard Stampede to support the team, cheering loudly despite the heat. Their encouragement underscored the close‑knit nature of Acorn’s school spirit and the importance of youth athletics in fostering character and perseverance.
Legacy Academy continues to emphasize the role of sports in developing disciplined, resilient young people who can balance academic responsibilities with athletic pursuits. The cross country program, like other school activities, aims to instill values of hard work, teamwork, and respect for one another—principles that align with the broader community’s commitment to family and faith.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect more exciting races, personal bests, and opportunities for the Warriors to showcase their dedication on the trails of Arkansas. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming meets and results.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
