While it’s possible the Southern Regional boys cross country squad could have climbed back to the top of the county leader board without Jack McLennan, it probably would have been more difficult and definitely less fun.

COASTING: Southern Regional junior Jack McLennan cruises into the final mile of the Ocean County Championship race at Ocean County Park in Lakewood on Oct. 16. (Photos by David Biggy)

“I didn’t run last week at the A South meet because of a calf strain, but the team came through,” said the junior who completed the Ocean County Park course in 16:03 on Oct. 16 to lead the Rams to the Ocean County championship.