Men's Cross Country | November 08, 2024

Luis Cruzado nearly walked away from cross country, but a change of scenery not only helped him return to the sport, but also thrive at USCA.

A native of Summerfield, Fla., Cruzado posted the third-fastest 5k time at Bellview H.S. Additionally, he led his team to a pair of first-place finishes in the district and at regional events.

After spending his first two years at Pasco Hernando State College, Cruzado was almost done with cross country. However, USCA head coach Marshall Leonard reached out to him about continuing his education and athletic career as a Pacer.

Wanting a change of scenery, Cruzado left the comfort of Florida for a new adventure in Aiken, S.C. 

His first two races at USCA were something to be remembered. At the Elon Opener, Cruzado broke the school mark for the 6k, crossing the finish line in 19:51.1. He took 23^rd in a meet that had Division I and Division II teams in attendance.

The following week, he bested the school-record 8k event in 26:31.11 at the Queens City Invite. Cruzado took 27^th at the highly competitive race.

He earned a 23^rd-place finish at the PBC Championships and aims to have his best race of the season at the longest race of the year – the NCAA Regional.

The change in scenery hasn't been the addition of hills, but USCA has also provided Cruzado to be around more people than he has been the last two years. Adjusting to the nuances of the school and the changes, Cruzado has thrived throughout the season.

To watch his entire interview, click below.