The Red Baron's traveled to Huntsville, AL for the NJAA DIII National Championship meet. This high caliber meet hosted top tier teams and runners throughout the country.
Hayden Allington started the prestigious 8k with a quick pace, placing himself just outside the top through the first mile. Allington fought hard through the next two miles, but found himself near 30th. Through the last two miles of the race, Allington dug deep and was able to pick off 5 runners and found himself in 24th spot heading down the final stretch. Hayden Allington finished the national meet in 24th with a time of 28:26.
The 24th place finish tops Allington's 25th place finish at last year's national meet and improved his time by 4 seconds.
Allington had some initial disappointment following the meet, but after some reflection, was pleased with his performance throughout the season. "This meet wasn't how I had envisioned it going, but I'm happy with the things I accomplished this year" said Allington. "I'm grateful to have made it this far twice during my time here at Corning."
Other notable Region 3 finishes included Sam Van Auken from Hudson Valley (27th - 28:37), Avion Harris from Herkimer (13th - 27:16), and the winner and national champion Omar Mohamed from Mohawk Valley (1st - 26:01)
This concludes Allington's cross country season and his career with the Corning Red Baron's XC program. Hayden collected many awards throughout the year including: 2 Region III Runner of the Week awards, a USTFCCCA Runner of the Week award, and was the MSAC conference men's champion.
"I couldn't be any prouder of what Hayden has been able to accomplish this year. It is one thing to perform well with a team rallying behind you and Hayden was able to accomplish this by himself. It was extremely impressive," Coach Casey Swartz said. "He has made my first year of coaching a memorable one. I am honored to have been able to coach someone like Hayden and I know he is going to go on and do incredible things."
Hayden is actively looking into continuing his education at a 4 year school and is also looking to continue his running career. The Red Baron community wishes Hayden all the best and congratulates him on a successful career.