Navajo Prep Junior Repeats State Cross Country Title, Team Shines

Elijah England solidified his status as one of New Mexico's top distance runners by capturing the NMAA Class 3A individual cross country championship for a second consecutive year on November 9, 2025. England posted a winning time of about 15 minutes 34.2 seconds, an improvement on his performance from the previous season, and finished ahead of teammate Kenai Begay, who took second place. The duo's first and second finishes gave Navajo Preparatory School a decisive edge in the team standings and contributed to the Eagles' strong overall result at the state meet.

England's championship caps a season in which he recorded multiple invitational victories and secured a district championship, milestones that signaled his readiness to defend the state crown. His improved time from last year reflects measurable progress in training and race execution over the course of the season. Begay's runner up finish complemented England's win and demonstrated depth in Navajo Prep's lineup, a key factor in successful team scoring at state meets.

The Eagles' performance at the Class 3A championship carries immediate significance for San Juan County and the school community. Back to back individual titles raise the profile of Navajo Prep's cross country program, attract attention from prospective athletes and area coaches, and provide a rallying point for student supporters and families. For the program itself, the result is evidence that coaching, conditioning and athlete development at the school are producing results on the statewide stage.

From an institutional perspective, Navajo Prep's showing illustrates how concentrated investment in high school athletics can yield both individual and team success. Local athletic administrators and school leaders may view the championship as validation of current coaching strategies and as leverage when advocating for resources, facilities and community support. For younger runners in the district, England and Begay offer a visible pathway from local invitational meets to district and state competition.

Looking ahead, England remains eligible to compete as a senior, giving the program an opportunity to pursue a threepeat in the coming season and to build further momentum. In the meantime, the back to back titles add to the county's sporting narrative for 2025 and create a platform for increased engagement among students, alumni and local supporters who follow high school athletics. The performance at the state meet reinforces Navajo Prep's position among New Mexico's competitive Class 3A programs and sets expectations for continued presence at championship events.