(WSBT/AP) Two of our local high school cross country runners have capped off incredible senior seasons that culminated with two state titles!

Culver Academies' Alex Banfich earned her third straight state title, becoming just the second girl in history to win the state cross country meet three consecutive years. Banfich won her third girls title on a longer course than her others, as the girls race was lengthened to 5,000 meters this year. The only other girl to win three straight state titles was Kankakee Valley's Celeste Susnis, who won in 1987, 1988 and 1989.

Over on the boys side, LaPorte's Mike Fout ran away with individual honors as well, leading the LaPorte Slicers to a second place finish as a team. Fishers edged out LaPorte for the title by less than a second and took home its first team crown. Fout was competing in his first cross country state final. He finished 24.7 seconds ahead of the second place finisher. It was the second-widest margin of victory since 1980, when the state finals moved to the 5,000 meter distance.

With Mike Fout committed to run for Florida State and Alex Banfich still undecided, these two speedy stars are sure to have promising collegiate careers! Congratulations to Alex Banfich and Mike Fout for bringing state titles to Michiana!