Pete Wilson, head Cross Country Coach, supplies the details of the Islander’s meet last Friday at the Kit Carson Invitational.
ESCONDIDO, Calif. — October 23, 2026 — Coronado High School’s cross country teams competed at the Kit Carson Invitational on Friday, demonstrating a philosophy that has guided their season: Every runner matters, every position counts, and every athlete has a responsibility to the next runner up.
The Islanders’ girls’ varsity team finished fourth in the Black Division with 86 points. Seniors Vivian Scott (19:11) and Maya Wilson (19:15) led Coronado, finishing 13th and 15th among a large field of competitors.
Carly DeVore (20:27), Lily Humphrey (21:00), and Teaghan Carpinito (21:15) completed the team’s scoring five. Annalei Berke and Ava Schlomer also represented Coronado in the junior varsity race.
The boys placed ninth in the Black Division, led by sophomore Evan Russo, who finished seventh overall in 17:23 over 3.05 miles. Ziggy Raunig (18:48), Ayrton Reyes (19:03), and Diego Ibarra Cruz (19:50) followed.
Two sophomores also delivered encouraging performances. Jameson Laaperi finished in 20:39, recording a personal-best time for the 3.05-mile distance and serving as Coronado’s fifth scoring runner. Jacob Ingold also recorded a personal best for the distance in 21:12, continuing his steady development this season. Oliver Surdykowski (21:03) added varsity depth, while freshman Felix Scott represented Coronado in the freshman division.
For Coronado’s cross country coaching staff, the performances reinforced the importance of developing every athlete, not just those leading the races. The team’s philosophy emphasizes that while runners compete individually, they are always contributing to something greater. Every position gained, every teammate encouraged, and every improvement strengthens the entire program.
With the Eastern League Finals and CIF San Diego Section Championships approaching, Coronado will focus on recovery, consistency, and finishing the season strong.
At Coronado, the next runner up isn’t just a racing strategy. It’s a team philosophy.
For more photos of this meet click here.
