Southern Nash sophomore Brooklyn Rice repeated as the Big East 5A/6A cross-country champion, even as an aggravated left ankle injury caused pain during the race. She’s prioritizing recovery before Saturday’s Class 5A East Regional, while keeping her focus on improving her times—not just winning.

By the Numbers
  • Rice won the conference title for the second straight year.
  • The regional course is 3.1 miles and includes three wooded loops.
Yes, But

Rice’s win came with a setback: She twisted her ankle playing club soccer, then aggravated it during the championship race. She plans to rest and ice it, wary of making the injury worse.

What's Next

Rice hopes to recover in time for Saturday’s regional meet on the same course. Her next goals are to compete safely and improve her times.

Bottom Line

Rice has the talent and title-winning momentum; her immediate challenge is balancing ambition with recovery so one race doesn’t jeopardize the rest of her season.