Some of the top runners in the state — Miller Grove and Saltillo Cross Country teams — were recognized by Hopkins County Commissioners Court Monday morning.
“This is an exciting time. We have some of the finest young people in the state here in the courtroom today,” said Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom, prior to reading four proclamations, one each recognizing the athletic achievements of three groups of Hopkins County students as well as one Lady Hornet for her individual achievement in the 2-mile course during the at the State of Texas Class 1A Cross Country Meet.
Saltillo Lions
The Saltillo Lions were congratulated for successfully conquering all opposition and taking home the UIL Class 1A State Cross Country Championship Award. Newsom on behalf of the Commissioners Court commended the runners “for their united goal, relentless team efforts and shared mindset of championship accomplishment during all workouts as well as during competition.”
“Along with the leadership of the team’s seniors, we congratulate the underclassmen in becoming one with their experienced members to produce strength beyond their own as individuals,” Newsom read from the proclamation honoring the Saltillo Lions for their “well-deserved place upon the podium as Championso f the 2022 Cross Country Competition.”
The 2022 Championship Cross Country Team included Heston Peeples, Colton McGill, Tobin Potter, Adrian Don Juan, Cristian Trejo, Jacob Sexton, Luke Ritter, Coy Collins, Gunner Tarver and Jonas Beadle, as well as Manager Landon Peeples, and Coaches Casey Riddle, Mike McMinn, Bill Giles and Brett Myers.
Before presenting a framed copy of the proclamation, the Judge encouraged “all to acknowledge the admirable performance of the Boys Cross Country Team of the Saltillo Independent School District in the Class 1A State Cross Country Meet for 2022.”
Coach Giles said the group of dedicated runners start at 5:45-6 a.m. every morning to run up to 50 miles a week since April, including sacrificing their summer break to get in their runs.
“They are pretty awesome. I am very proud of them. All summer and into the fall, they were out there pushing themselves,” Giles said.
MG Lady Hornets
The Miller Grove Lady Hornets captured the 2022 State Girls 1A Cross Country Championship title during the UIL meet held Nov. 5 at Old Settlers’ Park in Round Rock. Contributing to the team’s overall win with their hard work, determination and team effort were Lady Hornets Shaylee Stracener, Kylie Hargrove, Alaira Serrano, Celeste Robertson, Jamilyn Hensley, Avery McInvale, Aleah Sotelo. MGISD Coaches include Assistant Coach Joey Chastain, Head Coach Dalton Herndon, and Assistant Coaches Randa Ramsey and Chris Horton.
Newsom then called for “all citizens of Hopkins County to proudly applaud the outstanding achievement of their exceptional athletes for their accomplishments as Champions for the State of Texas in the Class 1A State Cross Country Meet of 2022.”
After presenting a framed copy of the proclamation ,which was awarded during the 9 a.m. court session, the Judge then singled out Lady Hornet Shaylee Stracener, presenting a separate proclamation recognizing the cross country runner for her individual achievement at the state contest. Newsom appeals to Hopkins County residents to join him in honorably commending Shaylee Stracener “for her fine performance and accomplishment as Silver Medalist of the 2022 Class 1A UIL State Cross Country Meet.”
The Lady Hornets began preparing for the 2022 fall season in April, running approximately 35-40 miles per week, including during the hottest part of summer, according to Herndon.
MG Hornets
The Miller Grove Hornets were recognized as the state runner-ups in Boys Cross Country. Newsom recognized this team for the effort and determination of each, as well as perseverance toward the common goal. The 2nd Place Miller Grove Hornets included Yahir Santana, Eli Griffin, Kavan Smith, Anthony Lester, Drew Lester, Ethan George, Ryker Haivala and Jaden Furrh. Coaches include Assistant Coaches Randa Ramsey and Joey Chastain, Head Coach Dalton Herndon and Assistant Coach Chris Horton.
The county judge then called on all of Hopkins County join us in applauding the great effort and valued perseverance of the Boys Cross Country Team of the Miller Grove Independent School District in the Class 1A State Cross Country Meet for 2022.”
Herndon said the Hornets started in April getting ready for the fall cross country season. The students ran an average of 55-60 miles per week, including during the heat of summer.
