The Niangua cross country program has two Cardinals making noise early in the 2026 season, with senior David S. and sophomore Colton K. currently ranked among the top 10 runners in Missouri Class 1.
David currently sits at No. 7 in the state, while Colton is ranked No. 9, giving Niangua two of the state's top Class 1 runners.
David has posted a season-best time of 17:22.2, continuing a strong career as he enters his senior season. Colton, just a sophomore, has already established himself among the state's elite with a season-best 17:39.5.
The combination of experience and youth gives Niangua plenty to be excited about as the season progresses. David is looking to cap his high school career with a strong postseason run, while Colton has two more seasons to continue developing into one of Missouri's premier distance runners.
With both Cardinals currently ranked inside the Class 1 state top 10, Niangua cross country has positioned itself as a program to watch as the 2026 season moves toward the postseason.
Two runners. Two top-10 rankings. One Cardinal program. The best may still be ahead.