Cross country running is about endurance, teamwork, and pushing the limits.
The 2025 JH District Cross Country Championships at Cuero Lake Park showcased these values as young athletes displayed talent and determination on Saturday, October 4,. This year’s event was nothing short of a historical celebration for our Cuero Junior High running teams, as records were shattered and champions crowned.
A record 22 runners participated from CJH, setting the stage for an outstanding day. Among them, 19 runners achieved personal bests, reflecting their hard work and dedication throughout the season. Their efforts resulted in two team district championships and two individual district championships, making this event a milestone in the history of the Gobbler Cross Country program.
In the 7th Grade Girls category, the spotlight shone brightly on Paisley Bixenmann, who finished as the district runner-up with a time of 14:47, marking a personal record. She was closely followed by her teammates, Trinity Jimenez (5th, 15:10), Evelyn Nezhad (7th, 16:09), and Rilynn Bade (8th, 16:31), all of whom set new personal bests. The other runners, including Paisley John (11th, 17:53), played a crucial role in forming a deep and talented squad.
The 8th Grade Girls team continued the winning tradition, securing back-to-back district championships this year. Carmen Jurosek, with a speedy finish of 14:19, earned the silver medal while also recording a personal record. Stephanie Hernandez (4th, 15:10) and Kaylen DeLeon (6th, 15:18) also placed well and achieved PRs, with Lainey Dyer (12th, 16:55) and Lily Hogan (13th, 17:13) contributing to the team’s impressive successes throughout the season.
On the boys’ side, the 7th Grade team showed team determination, with Kyler Leist capturing the individual district championship at a blazing time of 13:59. Parker Fortanas (3rd, 14:58), Sawyer Willow (4th, 15:00), and Ryder Beldin (5th, 15:07)— all achieving personal records—helped clinch the team title. Additional congratulations go to Drew Chilek (7th, 15:13) and Jacob Resendez (12th, 16:13), among others, for their strong finishes.
The 8th Grade Boys were led by standout Elias Gomez, who not only won the race but also achieved back-toback individual district championships with an impressive time of 12:43. Angelo Vasquez finished 12th in a competitive field, clocking in at 14:20 and also setting a personal record.
Coach Van expressed immense pride in his runners, stating, “The 7th-grade boys persevered all season and came through with their fastest times at just the right moment.” He emphasized that the girls would undoubtedly play a crucial role in the program’s future as they transition to high school, highlighting the depth of talent present in the junior high ranks.
All in all, the 2025 JH District Cross Country Championships showcased not just the competitive spirit of Cuero’s runners but also their extraordinary commitment to the sport. With promising athletes ready to take the next step into high school competition, the legacy of excellence in the Cross-Country program is ready to continue. As everyone celebrates these incredible achievements, we look forward to the future and the many successes that lie ahead for these talented young runners.
Elias Gomez wins a back-toback JH District Championship with a time of 12.43. Photo courtesy of Brian Gomez
