Senior Zion Ortiz has broken multiple records in his four years on the Burroughs cross-country team — so much so that even he cannot list them all.
His most recent accomplishment was at the highly competitive Woodbridge Invitational, where he finished with an impressive 14:08 on the 3-mile course. His record for the Burroughs home course is under 16:20.
Surely, a top runner like Ortiz has a secret to his success.
“My personal ‘superpower’ for XC is that I have a good mentality,” explained Ortiz. “I look and see things differently and always think positive.”
Still, competing at his level isn’t a solo effort; he credits his coaches for pushing him with demanding workouts and his teammates for supporting him and encouraging him to do his best.
Not surprisingly, XC Coach Ephraim Washburn is quick to praise Ortiz in turn.
“Zion has always put in the extra effort to excel at cross country running,” said Washburn. “He trains early mornings, weekends, and all summer long with the normal school practices.”
Washburn says that Ortiz’ success has a positive impact on the team as a whole.
“Zion is an asset in races as he is always at the front of the race and greatly improves the team’s score,” said Washburn. “Zion is also an asset to the team because he is encouraging and a friend to all on the team. Zion is a positive role model for the younger runners.”
Varsity runner Quan Laskey attests to this.
“Zion is an incredible runner,” said Laskey. “He does things I cannot imagine doing and he finishes with a smile. Just seeing him run at that speed is inspiring, but I think that the most inspiring thing about Zion is the fact that he will cheer all of us on, no matter the level, and with an infectious enthusiasm that brings the team together.”
Ortiz started running competitively in 2015. With many, many, many miles under his feet, he has come to appreciate some courses more than others. He says his favorite course is the one at States because it presents him with a challenge, and his least favorite is Mt. SAC because of the never-ending hills. Whatever the course, Ortiz keeps his eyes on the prize.
“My personal goal this year is to go to NXN [Nike Cross Nationals], and our team goal is to make it to states for both the boys and girls teams,” said Ortiz.
