Posted: Aug 29, 2025

Johnson paces Simpson to first place at the Bill Buxton Invitational

INDIANOLA, Iowa - Shaving over a minute off his time from last year, James Johnson led Simpson to a title at the Bill Buxton Invitational to start the 2025 cross country season.

Competing on its home course, Simpson dominated the leaderboards, taking four of the top-five spots and seven in the top-10. Johnson, along with Cole Leggett, paced the Storm pack with their second and third place finishes respectively.

"Our men ran well to open up the season," said head coach Heath Moenck. "James Johnson and Cole Leggett both had great summers and were ready to take the next step this season. I'm excited about where we are at this early in the season."

TEAM STANDINGS

1. Simpson - 20 points
2. Simpson Alumni - 48
3. Southwestern CC - 74
4. Graceland - 110

TOP FINISHERS

2. James Johnson - 18:58.2
3. Cole Leggett - 19:08.7
4. Ryan North - 19:49.3
5. Doug Berg - 19:53
6. Drew Engler - 19:56.2
8. Collin Kessler - 20:10.1
9. Ethan Haus - 20:17.7