Mile after mile, the pace increases as runners focus on the finish line. Cross-country running is not for the faint of heart, as it requires endurance, knowledge of the terrain, and a competitive spirit. Sophomore Diego Duran has been breaking record after record as an underclassman and leader on the cross-country team.
“Diego is the top runner in our district, ” cross-country coach Justin Havens said, “He has set three school records so far this season in the 3 mile, 4,000-meter, and 5,000-meter events. Before he graduates, his name will be on the top ten performance list for Bryan High School.”
Diego knows how to keep his competition on their toes by pushing himself to the limit.
“This past week, the number two runner in our district ran on Diego’s heels, thinking he could outkick Diego at the finish,” Havens said. “About a third of the way through the race, Diego made a strategic move and pushed the pace. The other runner could not handle the pressure and dropped behind by almost 30 seconds. This was not a move Diego understood how to make last year.”
While Diego is only a sophomore, his coach and he have seen the improvements he has made since freshman year.
“I definitely have more experience than I used to have,” Diego said. “I learned how to pace myself better, allowing myself to compete against better competition.”
Diego’s teammate, senior Kite Williams, has also seen Diego’s improvements as a competitor.
“I’ve seen Diego grow mentally as an athlete from his freshman year to now,” Kite said. “It impresses me that, as such a young runner, he thinks about things the way he does, like knowing where he needs to be at certain times and setting small goals for himself.”
Diego’s athleticism and mentality make him an elite teammate, inspiring those around him.
“Diego’s positive attitude is exactly what we look for in a teammate and leader,” Havens said. “His attitude and competitive nature are starting to inspire others around him to push themselves to see what they can accomplish if they put their mind to it.”
Freshman Amelia Sullivan views Diego as a motivating factor who pushes their team to be the best.
“As a team, we all encourage each other to reach our goals and always encourage one another to have a positive attitude when running gets tough,” Amelia said. “Cross country isn’t a team sport, but teammates matter and are still important when striving for success.”
Though Diego focuses on the finish line, he is also working to foster growth in the cross-country program for future generations.
“The fact that my younger siblings run motivates me to set a good example and to be a leader for them,” Diego said. “I want to see the team continue to grow and succeed even after I graduate.”
Coach Havens recognizes Diego’s will to work hard and how it sets him apart from his competitors.
“Most people think of Diego as some physical anomaly”, Havens said. “He is physically like his peers. Mentally, he has a desire to do what it takes to become great. Diego knows that a competitive season is the time to collect the medals you earn in the pre-season. He just outworks everyone.”
Havens believes Diego will have a bright future, considering his determination and drive to be the best.
“Diego’s consistency and willingness to put in the work, rain or shine, cold or hot, whenever and wherever he needs to get better will help him succeed,” Havens said. ”He is dedicated to being better year-round. There isn’t really a secret recipe for success. He understands improvement is a long-term commitment, and he is reaping the rewards already.”
