Here's a look at the top 200 3A boys returners for the 2025 Cross Country Season based on their 5K times from the 2024 season. 10 of the top 20 finishers in last year's FHSAA 3A Championship return, including Junior Marcelo Mantecon of Belen Jesuit, who will be seeking his second state title. Of note will be the absence of last year's runner-up, Andrew Beroset. Beroset will be running for McCallie in Chattanooga, TN, as his family moved over the summer. Joining Mantecon will be another talented junior, Armando Cruz. Cruz was seventh in last year's state meet.
Justin Ruiz on the left (2025) and junior Armando Cruz of Belen Jesuit finished in a virtual tie for 8th place at New World. Cruz is the number two returning 3A boy in 2025.
Photo Nancy Scott
