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Makenzie Wamsher
During the week of October 6th, Cedar Crest senior Makenzie Wamsher continued her impressive debut season in cross country with a standout performance at the Lancaster Lebanon League Championships. Wamsher placed 3rd overall with a time of 18:17.23, finishing as the top Lebanon County runner. The effort earned her recognition as the LebCo Athlete of the Week.
“I ran at leagues and finished in 3rd,” said Wamsher. “I felt strong during the race and pushed myself to stay consistent. I’m proud of how I did, but I also see areas where I can still improve my pacing and finish stronger next time.”
Unfortunately, an injury cut her season short before the District 3 Championships. Still, her leadership and positivity have continued to lift the Falcons. “I’ve supported my teammates by encouraging them and staying positive,” she said. “I’ve tried to help motivate everyone to stay focused on our team’s goals and keep improving each race.”
Before her setback, Wamsher had set her sights on medaling at both Districts and States — and even chasing the school record. That drive comes from a comeback story few could imagine.
Last year, during a soccer game, Wamsher suffered a lacerated pancreas, leaving her in and out of the hospital for months. “The recovery process was long and difficult,” she recalled. “Not knowing what my athletic future would look like was hard, but it taught me to discover who I was beyond sports. The journey made me stronger and helped me realize how much of a privilege it is to do what I love.”
While the injury ended her soccer career, it opened the door to something new. “This is my first year running cross country, and I’m incredibly grateful to have found this new passion,” she said. Wamsher also competes in track, focusing on distance events and hurdles.
Cedar Crest Head Coach Brandon Risser praised her instant impact and toughness. “Makenzie has an amazing work ethic, and she put in the miles to make sure she was ready for the season,” said Risser. “Once the racing started, her true strength showed — she is TOUGH. That toughness was on full display when she earned medals at major meets and finished 3rd at Leagues with a PR of 18:17. She and her twin sister, Hayden, have both brought tremendous energy and commitment to our program.”
He added, “Even though Makenzie’s season ended sooner than hoped, the legacy she’s already left on our program is remarkable. She’s an incredible athlete, but an even better person.”
Wamsher credits her coaches — Risser, Barrett, and Bare — for their encouragement and care throughout her athletic journey. “They’ve supported me not only in running but personally, especially through the challenges I’ve faced at home,” she said. “They continually check in on my mental and physical well-being while motivating me to reach my full potential.”
Outside of training, Makenzie enjoys listening to music and catching up on sleep. She plans to attend college to pursue a nursing degree, with hopes of becoming a cosmetic injector.
When asked what she enjoys most about competing, she said, “The feeling you get after hitting a new PR and the drive it gives you to keep showing up and working hard every day. I also love the friendships and memories you make along the way. Sports have truly shaped who I am — they’ve taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of teamwork.”
Congratulations to Makenzie — we wish her a speedy recovery and continued success. Best of luck as well to her Cedar Crest teammates as they compete at States this weekend.
Photos provided by Cedar Crest Cross Country
District 3 Cross Country Championships: Furmanski Dominates & Annville-Cleona Boys Rule to Lead Strong LebCo Contingent – Full Results
LebCo Male Athlete of the Week: Damion Santiago
Past Female LebCo Athletes of the Week
Jovie Weaver (Week ending 10/12)
McKenna Kantner (Week ending 10/5)
Claire Jacoby (Week ending 9/28)
Laney Zimmerman (Week ending 9/21)
Savannah Kleinfelter (Week ending 9/14)
Shea Moyer (Week ending 9/7)
Chloe Shirk (Week ending 8/31)
Leigha Kane (Week ending 8/24)
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