Junior Austin Carr will represent Saint Stephen’s at the FHSAA Class 1A Cross Country State Final on Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Apalachee Regional Park in Tallahassee. Carr will compete in the 5k event. 

Carr’s final week of preparation focused on honing in on his finishing “kick” and sharpening his mental readiness. But the training really began six months ago, according to Head Coach J.B. Wolcott.

Wolcott said Carr’s consistent focus on building endurance and preventing injuries is what led him to tomorrow’s contest.  He added that months of hard work helped Carr achieve a top-ten finish at Regionals and a school record of 16:46 in the 5k, a startling feat.

This race will be Austin’s first appearance at States, making him the first Falcon to compete at the cross country State Final since 2021. While his primary goal is to run a smart race and give his best effort, he’s also eager to enjoy the experience and observe some of Florida’s top runners. With more races likely ahead at Apalachee, this State Final presents an opportunity for Carr to gain experience.

“I really hope I can run a strong race at the state meet and get as close to the top 20 as possible,” Carr said.

Head Coach JB Wolcott has worked all year with Carr on endurance training, using a mix of easy long-distance runs, bike rides, and weight training. Carr’s times have shown steady improvement over the season, moving from the 18-minute range to breaking the 17-minute barrier. In the week leading up to the meet, his workouts included chasing down fast runners, a time trial, and speed work focused on downhill sprints. 

Wolcott’s primary goal for Austin is to race within his own plan and give his best effort.  For Wolcott, the experience of running at States is something he hopes Carr relishes in. 

“I hope he enjoys watching our sport in action [at the State competition level] as much as racing himself,” Wolcott said.