As we get closer to the winter track season, many national cross country races have concluded. Qualifying for and running in these races is a huge accomplishment and a great honor.  Whitney Young’s own Clayton Mendez, ‘18 had the honor of running in the 2017 Foot Locker National Cross Country Championship on December 9th.  Even though it was cold in Chicago during the race, he ran in warm Balboa Park in San Diego, CA.  

After coming in third place at the Midwest Regional Qualifier, Clayton, along with nine other Midwest boys, took the trip to California.  They represented the Midwest team that would go against the South, Northeast, and West.  There, Clay left it all on the field, coming in 9th place overall out of the 40 boys running.  Teammate Luke Somerville ‘18, was amazed and exclaimed “This guy is on another level, great things are ahead for him!” By doing so, Mendez qualified for All-American status. With this spectacular finish, Clayton was able to help the Midwest team inch out a one point 1st place victory over the other regions.  After completing the race, Clay said “I had an amazing experience and was so proud to be representing the school. It meant a lot knowing I was the first Chicago Public League kid to make it to that point, so I just put my all into making the moment count.”

We wish Clayton well at Stanford next year in all his future endeavors.  

Results from the race can be found here: 2017 Foot Locker Boys Championship Race Results

Video coverage from the race can be found here: 2017 Foot Locker Boys Race

Stanford Cross Country Roster: Stanford XC Roster