
Massachusetts has a talented group of freshman distance runners set to make their mark this spring.
Before they toe the line for the first time at the high school level, here's a look at ten who turned heads on the middle school circuit a year ago.
Top Freshman Distance Runners To Watch:
Duane's 2:08.75 in the 800m leads all boys in the class from last season. He also ran a 4:46.92 in the 1500m.
Hayston Hay (Quabbin Regional, 2029):
Hay ran a 2:16.17 in the 800m and 4:35.74 in the 1500m last season, both at the USATF Junior Olympic Championships, where he won the 1500m.
Mason Bearer (New England Elite, 2029):
Bearer posted a 4:40.43 in the 1500m and 4:56.94 in the 1600m last season, with both marks coming at national-level meets like Nike Outdoor Nationals.
Cameron Duane (Groton Dunstable Regional, 2029):
Duane ran a 2:18.88 in the 800m and 4:45.59 in the 1500m last season, competing at both the USATF Junior Olympics and the New England Youth Invitational.
Lucian Paula (St. Mary's Lynn, 2029):
Paula's 2:09.34 in the 800m was the fastest mark in the state championship field last season, making him one of the top freshman distance runners in Massachusetts heading into the spring.