News Summary

The La Plata High School varsity boys cross country team showcased impressive skills at the 51st Paul Short Run. Competing against over 350 runners, they finished 22nd overall, with junior Lucas Alarie taking 13th place. The supportive community and exceptional coaching contributed to an inspiring experience for the young athletes. This event not only emphasized competition but also provided valuable opportunities and exposure to collegiate running. The La Plata team continues to build their reputation in the sport as they prepare for future challenges.

La Plata Shines Bright at the 51st Paul Short Run

In the charming city of La Plata, excitement was in the air as the La Plata High School varsity boys cross country team took on the 51st Paul Short Run held on October 2, 2025, at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This remarkable event featured over 350 spirited runners from 41 schools across the East Coast, making it one of the biggest cross country meets around.

Team Performance at a Glance

The La Plata boys proved their mettle, finishing a commendable 22nd overall in the team standings. This notable achievement is no small feat, especially in such a highly competitive setting!

Leading the charge was junior Lucas Alarie, whose speed and determination earned him an impressive 13th place finish with a blazing time of 16:16.6. He certainly knows how to make a statement on the track! Following closely was another junior, Trevor Thompson, who sprinted across the finish line in 22nd place, capturing a personal best time of 16:30.1. The duo demonstrated not just hard work, but also the heart of true champions!

The team’s performance also drew contributions from several other talented runners. Zackary Mayo crossed the line in 150th place with a time of 18:20.3, while Matthew Schick followed in 180th at 18:38.4. Adin Walters, Zachary Cottle, and David Mason rounded out the team with respective times of 19:11.1, 19:19.6, and 19:45.5, placing them at 224th, 234th, and 273rd.

A Supportive Community

The enduring spirit of La Plata’s community was evident as parents and supporters gathered to cheer on the runners. Kudos were given to Coaches Blaine and Nicholl for their exceptional leadership, guiding the boys not just to run fast, but to embody discipline, teamwork, and confidence. It’s clear that coaches play a pivotal role in shaping these young athletes.

More Than Just a Race

This year’s Paul Short Run was not just about competition; it offered an invaluable experience for the boys. In addition to the intense races, the athletes had the unique opportunity to tour Lehigh University’s beautiful campus. They were also able to meet college coaches and connect with NCAA runners, exposing them to the higher echelons of the sport. What an inspiring day for our young talent!

What Makes the Paul Short Run Special?

The Paul Short Run holds a prestigious spot in the high school cross country calendar. Now in its 51st year, this event is one of the largest and most competitive in the nation. The meet is structured over two days, with the high school races on October 2 and collegiate events on October 3. It’s a spectacle that brings together talented athletes from different backgrounds, all vying for recognition and personal achievement.

For the La Plata High School team, participating in this event is about more than just the rankings. It’s a celebration of their hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. With each race, the team continues to build on its promising reputation, and we can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next!

As we applaud their efforts and celebrate their achievements, we look forward to more exciting news and victories from the La Plata boys cross country team!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Calvert High School Golfer Leads Victory in SMAC Duel

Additional Resources