PARK HILLS, Ky. — More than three weeks have passed since Covington Catholic senior Joe Mayer won the Kentucky Class 2A boys cross country state championship.

And yet the unforgettable moment was more than just a trophy to the 17-year-old, who is also Covington Catholic's class president.

Joe won the state title in 15 minutes and 44.15 seconds Nov. 1 at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, just months after his father, Dan Mayer, died unexpectedly at the age of 42 this past summer.

It was a culmination of four years of blood, sweat and tears.

“He would’ve loved to see the state title," Joe said last week.

Joe said he gained a greater appreciation for family, friends and teammates.

“I think the coolest thing about it was the amount of people that were there,” Joe said. “It was the most

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