The Pahrump Valley High School cross country team put together a strong performance at the Red Rock Running Company Invitational, held Saturday, August 23, at James Regional Park in Las Vegas. With a mix of veteran runners and promising newcomers, the Trojans made their mark on the competitive field, earning medals and recognition across several races.
In the boys newcomer’s race, a 1.75-mile course, the Trojans showed depth and determination. Nicoli Money led the way with a swift 10:38 finish, followed closely by Kris Trejo at 10:53. Alexander Martinez kept the momentum going with an 11:57 finish, with Mozes Quinonez not far behind in 12:09. The team’s efforts continued with Evan Risk at 12:21, Ace Blumer at 13:50, Emmanuel Dupart at 14:27, and Isaiah Veloz rounding out the group at 17:13. Each competitor demonstrated determination and the ability to navigate the early stages of their foray into high school cross country.
On the girls’ side of the newcomer’s race, Rosie Miller delivered a standout performance. Running the same 1.75-mile course, Miller clocked in at 11:33, placing seventh overall. Her finish earned her both a medal and a backpack, a reward that highlighted her strong showing against tough competition. Lynette Doty also represented the Trojans, finishing in 18:29 and helping showcase the program’s growing roster of young talent.
The veteran runners kept the momentum alive in the longer races. In the boys’ South of Sahara 5k, Joaquin Flores led the way for Pahrump Valley, finishing in 18:20 for 23rd overall and earning himself a medal. He was trailed by a tight pack of teammates: Logan Tilley at 18:44, Timmy Stutzman at 19:10, Daniel Thompson at 19:17, and Josh Flores at 19:19. Their close times reflected the Trojans’ teamwork and training discipline. Rounding out the boys’ effort were Aydon Veloz at 19:54, Sam Grabbe at 21:55, Keldan Frederickson at 25:34, and Akim Khan at 25:43, each showing perseverance over the demanding course.
The girls in the South of Sahara race also made their presence known with strong finishes in the 5k. Leading the way was Rylan Bliss, who placed 20th overall with a time of 21:48, earning a medal for her effort. Kaylan Robinson followed in 22:54, while Savannah Thompson finished in 23:16. Addi Nelsen and Alexis Clouser crossed the line nearly together at 24:20 and 24:21, a testament to their steady pacing. The rest of the Trojan squad fought hard through the rolling terrain, with Keelee Gieni finishing in 25:41, Sophie Romero in 26:07, Ella Odegard in 29:35, and Kimberly Trejo in 30:21.
From newcomers to seasoned athletes, the Trojans proved they are ready to take on the challenges of the season. With medals earned, personal bests set, and team spirit high, Pahrump Valley left the Red Rock Running Company Invitational with confidence and determination. The depth on display across both the boys’ and girls’ teams signals an exciting road ahead for Trojan cross country.
