UPDATE: The Santa Fe Indian School boys cross-country team has achieved a historic victory, clinching the Class 3A state title with a nail-biting 46-53 win over Navajo Prep on October 28, 2023, at Albuquerque Academy. Coach Jarvis Morningdove was left speechless as his team fulfilled a three-year quest for the coveted blue trophy, overcoming previous years of near misses.
The Braves’ triumph marks the end of a challenging journey, having finished just 10 points behind Zuni last season and third two years ago, just eight points behind a tie between St. Michael’s and Navajo Prep. Morningdove expressed his disbelief, stating, “I’m just lost for words… Today…”
In a stunning display of teamwork and resilience, the Santa Fe Indian School squad solidified their position by securing scoring finishes within the first 16 spots. Senior Antonio Pecos, who transitioned back to cross-country after starting the year in football, placed fifth, underscoring the importance of dedication. “We just had to work hard, and we’re state champions,” he declared.
Meanwhile, the Pecos Panthers successfully defended their title in the 1A/2A category, achieving a decisive 46-69 victory over Albuquerque Oak Grove Classical Academy. This win marks the Panthers’ sixth championship in the last decade, demonstrating their dominance in small-school cross-country.
Coach Patrick Ortiz highlighted the significance of every team member, noting that championships are often determined by the performances of fourth and fifth runners. The Panthers’ strong lineup featured impressive finishes from Brandyn Encinias (second), Carlos Ragland (sixth), and Thomas Garcia (ninth), providing a solid foundation for their title defense.
Los Alamos also put forth a commendable effort, finishing as runners-up to Albuquerque Academy in the 4A race with a score of 36-56. The Hilltoppers showcased their strength with five runners in the top 20, led by Kaj Maupin and August Ovaska, who finished sixth and twelfth, respectively.
The competition proved intense, with the Santa Fe Indian School’s unexpected performance leaving other teams scrambling. The Eagles, who had previously outperformed the Braves at the Albuquerque Academy Extravaganza, could not replicate their success on the state stage, finishing well behind.
Morningdove noted that the landscape of the race shifted dramatically with the inclusion of Zuni and Ruidoso, both absent from earlier competitions. “That wide margin Prep had at the beginning shrinks,” Morningdove said, emphasizing the increased competition’s impact on rankings.
As the dust settles on this year’s state championships, the Santa Fe Indian School and Pecos teams have etched their names in history, providing an inspiring narrative of perseverance and teamwork. Fans eagerly anticipate what next season holds for these champions, as they prepare to defend their titles and chase new aspirations.
Stay tuned for updates and reactions from the teams as they celebrate their achievements and look ahead to future competitions.
