Trojans out of the running for state finals, but Jordan Timmons advances.

Her teammates couldn't be happier for Jordan Timmons.

The Center Grove senior finished 12th at the Carmel Cross Country semistate on Saturday to qualify for the 2012 IHSAA State Finals scheduled for this week at the famed LaVern Gibson National Cross Country Championship Course in Terre Haute.

Timmons was called on to carry the heavy water after the Trojans top-runner and three-time state qualifier Tori Schoettmer was sidelined with an injury.

Schoettmer won the Franklin sectional and Timmons was second leading the Trojans to a team first place.

But when Schoettmer was unable to go at the Greensburg regional, it was Timmons who stepped up her game, finishing second place to lead the Trojans to the regional title.

"A lot of people doubted we could get to the state without our top runner," said Trojans coach Wes Dodson.  "We almost pulled it off."

Center Grove and Westfield tied for sixth place with 186 team points and only the top six schools qualify for state.

When they went to break the tie, the sixth runner for Westfield was a little faster.

Although Timmons was elated with her individual outcome, she couldn't help but be disappointed her team will not be there.

Not there?

Wrong.

They'll be there, supporting her all the way.

The state finals steps off at 1 p.m. on Saturday.

If you've never been there, it's an atmosphere that will have a lasting impression for a lifetime. And with the leaves at peak season, that's another good reason to head west on Saturday morning.

For directions, go to the IHSAA.org website.