PAGE, Ariz. — President Buu Nygren joined athletes, families, and community members at the Arizona Sectional Cross Country Meet held at the Lake Powell National Golf Course, where he congratulated state qualifiers and celebrated the achievements of Navajo Nation runners.
President Nygren watched runners from all divisions—from junior high to varsity—brave nearly three miles of rolling hills and desert winds at the scenic course. He spoke with families, coaches, and volunteers who dedicate their weekends to supporting youth sports and promoting community wellness.
The President said he was inspired by the determination and grit shown by the athletes. Each race, he noted, reflected months of early-morning practices and long runs on reservation trails, where many Navajo youth first discover their strength, discipline, and love for running.
Congratulations to the following winners:
Boys Division III:
- Individual Winner: Jet Girardi (Blue Ridge)
- Team Champion: Page Sand Devils
Girls Division III:
- Individual Winner: Damira Allen (Ganado)
- Team Champion: Chinle Wildcats
Boys Division IV:
- Individual Winner: Evans Tracy (St. Michael’s)
- Team Champion: Hopi Bruins
Girls Division IV:
- Individual Winner: Jasmine Hall (BASIS Flagstaff)
- Team Champion: BASIS Flagstaff
“Cross country running is about endurance, consistency, and heart,” President Nygren noted after the event. “These young runners show us what commitment looks like, and they remind us that success comes from pushing through the hard miles.”
President Nygren extended his best wishes to all runners advancing to the state meet, encouraging them to continue representing their schools, families, and communities with pride and perseverance.
The 2025 AIA Cross Country State Championship will take place Saturday, November 15, with the first race starting at 8:30 a.m. at Cave Creek Golf Course in Phoenix.
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