Freshman Jazmin Neri qualified for state in cross country, running an 18:28 on Oct. 31, and was the only Azle runner to qualify for the UIL State Championship, where she placed 12th. Neri also attended regionals in Lubbock, where she ran an 18:29, placing third overall.
“I was extremely grateful for this opportunity to even be able to go to State, and I will forever be blessed for the chance as well,” Jazmin said.
Jazmin said her cousin, senior Azucena Neri, helped make her the runner she is today. Azucena also attended the UIL State meet to support Jazmin in her run, traveling with her to the event.
“My cousin Azucena helped me through a lot of this year and helped me create a good mindset every time I ran,” Jazmin said. “Even before I ran during State, she was right there telling me to do good and to have a good time.”
Jazmin said her biggest support team has been her cousin Azucena, her friends, and her coaches who had a big influence on her cross country season.
“Jazmin going to state doesn’t surprise me at all, and I’m so proud of her,” Azucena said. “I think that Jazmin did amazing. She works so hard all the time. Her mindset, faith and commitment all together are what make her a really good runner.”
Head cross country coach Kelsie Jones said Jazmin has been rock-solid all year. She has the mindset of a champion and handles pressure very well for her age.
“I was very excited for Jaz,” Jones said. “It takes a special person to excel as a distance athlete. It is a lot of hard work for brief moments of joy and accomplishment.”
During runs, Jazmin said she really tries to lock in before, during and after to get her through the race. She said it is very important for anyone if they want to win in the sport they are doing, whether it’s cross country or otherwise.
“Focusing really made me think of the hard work and dedication I put into this,” Jazmin said. “I knew it was going to pay off at the end by making it to state.”
Coach Jones said Consistency is the key to success in endurance athletics. She added that Jazmin has a great ability to forgo something in the moment to gain a reward later.
“I can’t wait to watch Jaz only go up from here,” Jones said. “Having her already is so much fun to watch.”
Azucena said Jazmin’s time and dedication show everyone who has been around her for the time in cross country. Wrapping up this cross-country season, Jazmin said she will always remember this year.
“I really enjoyed my cross country season,” Jazmin said. “I feel like it will be very memorable in the future. I ended up as a school record holder, and I just really enjoyed my season. I hope to improve throughout my years at the high school.”
