Lamar runners keep coach in mind

By By Austin Bishop / EMG regional sports director
Oct. 28, 2003
CLINTON Even halfway across the country, Ed Abdella's presence was felt by the Lamar High School cross-country team on Monday afternoon.
The Raiders and Lady Raiders tied yellow ribbons on their running shoes to remind them of their coach, who has been on active military duty in Iraq since May.
The Raiders went out and finished fourth in the MPSA Class 3A meet, while the girls claimed sixth.
Brandon Bennett led the Lamar boys by finishing third with a time of 17:52, while Cameron Sherrill was 10th at 18:22. Both took home all-state honors for their efforts.
Jackson Academy won the boys portion of the event, while Washington School of Greenville took home the girls championship.
Finishing third for Lamar was 8th grader Brandon McElroy who took 21st overall with a time of 19:06. Bryan Holladay's 19:35 was good for 28th, while Drew Robertson was 31st with a 19:53.
Other runners competing for Lamar were Scott Bounds, Bradley Bishop, Ethan Anderson, Patrick Futtrell, Daniel Johnson, Lucas Wilson, James Holland, Duncan Chalk and Beau Grantham.
Holly Corbitt had the best time for the Lady Raiders, finishing 23rd with a time of 14:35. She was just ahead of Merry Grace Coffin, who was 24th with a 14:46. Anna Covington was 44th with a time of 16:12. Others running well for Lamar were Mary Elizabeth Futtrell, Sarah Summers, Macy Almond, Natalie May and Jamie Henderson.