Two runners that showed an act of sportsmanship two years ago reunited at a state cross country meet. They are still cheering each other on.
Two years ago a pair of Minnesota high school cross country runners captured the essence of sportsmanship that resulted in a disqualification but you could say things worked out in the long run.
Two years ago Gracie Bucher collapsed at the section meet, only to be carried across the finish line by Liana Blomgren, an opponent from Mountain Lake. For her kind act, Liana was disqualified from her last high school race. Gracie too.
Gracie qualified for state this year and competed.
On Saturday, Liana attended the state meet to cheer for Gracie. They have kept in contact over the years.
Liana gave Gracie a koala bear that reads "“Congrats on koala-fying for state!”