Jacob Swearingen of Potosi High School, a two-time state cross country champion, finished 15th in a field of 197 of the nation’s best high school runners at the Nike Cross Nationals on Saturday in Portland, Ore. Swearingen was the only area runner in the race.

The showing continued a string of triumphs after tragedy. Swearingen’s family home burned to the ground Nov. 8, while he was winning his second success Class 3 title. The home was destroyed, nearly every medal and photo from his races was missing or burned beyond recognition. Swearingen’s family dispersed to live with relatives. Despondent, he said he was finished with running.

After a few days of reflection, though, he said he realized that he owed it to those who had supported him to run again. Smart decision. Swearingen will continue running next year at Rend Lake College.

And, it’s not too late to contribute to help his family. Make a check payable to Tim Busse (Jacob’s stepfather) and send it to:

Belgrade State Bank

306 North Missouri

Potosi, MO, 63664