Clinton High School Senior William Reid Selected for 2024 Shrine Bowl Run

December 1, 2024

Clinton High School senior William Reid has made history as the first CHS cross country runner to be selected for the prestigious Shrine Bowl Run. Since its inception in 1986 by Everett Stoudenmire and the South Carolina Track and Cross-Country Coaches Association, the Shrine Bowl Run has honored the top 20 senior boys and 20 senior girls from across all classifications in South Carolina. These elite athletes carry the Shrine Bowl game ball in a 22-mile relay from the Shriners Hospital to Spartanburg High School, interacting with children at the hospital and raising awareness for their challenges along the way.

The runners, selected for their exceptional achievements and dedication, will carry the game ball in segments of approximately two miles each before passing it to the next group. This year, William Reid’s inclusion marks a milestone for Clinton High School and underscores his remarkable cross-country season.

Reid has broken records and reached incredible heights this year. He set the Clinton High School 5K record with an astounding time of 15:34 and the school’s course record at 16:33. Among his other accolades, Reid is the Region III, 2A Individual Champion, Laurens County Champion, and earned All-State honors by finishing 5th in the SCHSL AA State Championship — the highest placement ever by a CHS cross country runner. At one point, Reid dominated the cross-country season, winning seven consecutive meets.

Cross Country Coach Lee Atkinson praised Reid’s dedication and achievement, stating, “William’s commitment to excellence has set him apart not only as an exceptional athlete but also as a leader for our program. His selection for the Shrine Bowl Run is a testament to his hard work, and I know he will represent Clinton High School with pride.”

The Shrine Bowl Run, which will take place on December 21, is a celebration of athletic excellence and community service, and Reid’s inclusion among the state’s top runners is a well-deserved honor.