2023 – FHSAA 3A Boys Regional Cross Country Championships Combined Individual Results

The FHSAA 3A Regional cross-country meets have once again highlighted the exceptional talent in Florida’s high school running scene. Leading the pack is Patrick Koon, a senior from Leon High School, who posted an impressive time of 15:24.5. Koon is not just a top runner; he’s a record breaker, owning the fastest time ever run by a Florida high schooler at the state meet and the state 3200m record. This year, he’s eyeing an unprecedented third consecutive individual Class 3A cross-country state championship, a feat only achieved by a few in Florida’s history.

Koon’s closest rivals include Joseph Koraya from Fort Myers, who finished second in the mock with a time of 15:41.4, and Nickolas Forbes from St. Petersburg, who clocked in at 15:44.3. These athletes, among others, are proving to be formidable challengers in a highly competitive field.

A notable emerging talent is Marcelo Mantecon, a freshman from Belen Jesuit Prep. Despite his youth, Mantecon has already made waves, finishing 13th in the mock from regionals with a time of 16:06.9. Last season, he placed 6th at the 3A state meet as an 8th grader and ran 9:14 for 3200 meters on the track, showcasing his potential to be a top contender in the coming years​​​

As we look forward to the state championships, these athletes are not just chasing titles but are also carving their names in the rich history of Florida’s high school cross-country running. Their dedication, talent, and competitive spirit continue to elevate the sport and inspire future generations of runners in the Sunshine State.