Central Texas Runners Claim State Titles in Thrilling Finish

BREAKING: Central Texas cross-country runners deliver an electrifying season, highlighted by state championships from Colby Huntress and Eva Cragnolino at the UIL state meet held at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock. The duo’s stellar performances not only earned them individual titles but also showcased the region’s depth in talent.

The Austin area made headlines this November with two individual champions. Huntress, representing Anderson High School, claimed the Class 5A boys title with a remarkable time of 15 minutes, 6 seconds, finishing nearly four seconds ahead of the nearest competitor. Meanwhile, Cragnolino from LASA dominated the Class 5A girls race, crossing the finish line in 17 minutes, 47 seconds, a lead of over six seconds.

The Vandegrift boys’ team continued their impressive streak, securing a runner-up finish in Class 6A for the fourth consecutive year. Several athletes from the Austin area also earned coveted all-state honors with top-30 finishes, further solidifying Central Texas’s reputation in cross country.

The 2025 All-Central Texas Team recognizes these outstanding athletes. Huntress, named the boys Athlete of the Year, concluded his high school career on a high note. His victory not only highlights his talent but also serves as an inspiration for future runners.

Among the first-team selections, Avinash Dewagan of Vandegrift played a crucial role in his team’s success, finishing 17th in Class 6A with a time of 15:32. Andrew Esparza from Round Rock capped his high school journey with a sixth-place finish in Class 6A, clocking an impressive 15:02. Griffin Hummel of Bowie also made the list, finishing seventh in Class 6A with a time of 15:06.

In the girls’ category, Cragnolino’s performance stands out as the highlight of the season. Her remarkable time not only secured the title but also placed her as the fastest runner in the area by a significant margin. Other first-team members include Melia Flowers from Georgetown, who finished 23rd in Class 5A with a time of 18:51, and Olivia Laudicina from Lake Travis, who logged a solid 18:30 in Class 6A.

As the season wraps up, attention turns to the next generation of runners eager to follow in the footsteps of these champions. With such strong performances, Central Texas cross-country is poised for continued excellence in the coming years.

This year’s achievements are not just numbers but stories of perseverance, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The impact of these young athletes resonates far beyond the track, inspiring countless others to strive for greatness.

Next Steps: Fans and supporters are encouraged to celebrate these remarkable accomplishments as Central Texas looks ahead to the next cross-country season. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and emerging talents in the region.