Clayton Mendez qualifies for NXN and Foot Locker Nationals

Rahul Mikkilineni, Editor

Even though the 2017 IHSA Cross Country season is over, many runners are still competing in other races such as Foot Locker Nationals or Nike Cross Nationals.  Clayton Mendez ‘18 ran both regional qualifier races, and qualified for both Foot Locker Nationals and Nike Cross Nationals.

Clayton got fifth overall at the Nike Cross Midwest Regional.  He ran a blazing fast time of 15 minutes, 11 seconds.  After a second place finish at the IHSA state meet, it is no surprise to see him dominating across the Midwest Region.  Teammate Luke Somerville ‘18 had this to say: “Clay is another level.  Any race he runs is a race to watch.”

A few weeks later, on November 25th, he ran at the Foot Locker Midwest Regional and placed third.  Here, he ran an even faster time of 15:07.  Again, he did amazing among a field of talented individuals from across the region.  Clayton is the only CPS runner in history to ever qualify for both national races.  He, himself is excited to compete on a national level.  To all the spectators, he says this: “On Saturday, I’m going to shock the nation.”  He will race at Nike Cross Nationals this Saturday, December 2nd.  

 

Results for the Foot Locker Midwest Regional can be found here: Foot Locker Results

Results for the Nike Cross Midwest Regional can be found here: NXR Midwest Results

 

Clayton Mendez after crossing finish line PC: Milesplit