STEELVILLE – The Steelville High School cross country team’s season wrapped up this weekend after two Cardinals competed in the Class 2 Missouri High School Athletic Association State Tournament Race. Senior Landon Rutledge and freshman Adalei Perkins represented Steelville’s boys and girls teams with admirable performances. 

Perkins finished off her strong freshman season with a 52nd place finish out of 173 runners. She was consistently the Lady Cardinals’ top runner this season and took first place on Oct. 21 in the Gasconade Valley Conference Meet. She thrived as a runner while being a dual sport fall athlete, splitting her time with the Lady Card’s volleyball team. Perkins won’t have much time to rest as she will now take her talents to the hardwood as a member of Steelville’s girl’s basketball team. 

Landon Rutledge capped off his illustrious career with a 16:50 finish, taking 22nd place in the 5000 meter State Championship race. There were 170 runners competing in the race, and the top 30 runners earned medals and were deemed All-State. Rutledge was awarded a medal to add to his collection he earned over the years. 

In his senior season, Rutledge won first place in the Belle Invitational, the Cuba Invitational and in the Gasconade Valley Conference Meet. He has been All-District for three years, All-Conference for three years and now adds All-State to his resume. Rutledge was also a part of the third place State team his freshman season. He has yet to commit to a college but has several offers. Rutledge is also a part of Steelville’s basketball team and will use his speed to help the Cardinals get up and down the court this season.