The boys cross country team competed in its first meet of the season at the Northeast Georgia Championships at Athens Christian High School on Saturday.

Head coach Brian DeRose was impressed by the opening day results from his team.

"The guys looked good against the other [Class] AAA schools. It was a big meet. Our four and five guys are really going to have to step it up if we are going to qualify for the state meet," he said.

Leading Dawson was transfer student Dylan Forester. Forester transferred from North Forsyth.

Forester set a new school record with a time of 17:23 to finish in 19th place overall at the meet. There were 188 runners in the 3.1-mile race.

Tiger Chris Bywaletz posted a time of 17:58 for a 41st place finish. Also posting times for Dawson County were Jake Hafermalz at 19:27, Avery Cowart at 19:55 and Mason Carr at 20:37.

Rounding out the varsity team was Nathan Shelp (21:00) and Cole Simmons (21:51).

"Our top three should be consistent throughout the season. Dylan has been hurt all summer, so it will be exciting to see him improve this fall as he gets back into shape. He may be Dawson's first sub-17 minute runner.

"Chris Bywaletz has been working hard this summer as well. Look for big seasons from both," DeRose said.

The Tigers finished in 15th place out of 21 teams.

Chase Fowers from Lakeside, Evans captured the individual title with a time of 16:08. Teammate Christian Bowles finished in second place with a time of 16:13.