PENNSYLVANIA STATE MEET 

Ryan Pajak Runs Course Record 15:21 For AA Title; Drew Griffith Bags AAA Victory In 15:23

By Mary Albl of DyeStat

Ryan Pajak’s first cross country state title was one he’ll remember. Saturday at the PIAA State Championships  at Hershey Parkview, the Ringgold High senior won the Class AA in a course-record time of 15 minutes, 21 seconds. His time across the 5,000-meter course was 16 seconds faster than runner-up Colin Whitaker of Lampeter Strasburg. 

“God, my friends, my family, and my coaches have guided me along throughout this tough journey, let’s get after it today,” Pajak said of winning his first title and in the fastest time of the day. 

The team title went to Hampton with 66 points, as they won the program’s first-ever title as well. 

In girls Class 2A, Baylee Espinosa of Lewisburg Area won in a time of 18:48. Danville Area claimed the team championship with four runners finishing in the top 30. 

Butler’s Drew Griffith, No. 2 in the DyeStat individual rankings, dominated the 3A field, winning his first title in 15:23. Runner-up was 21 seconds back. Both Pajak and Griffith, as well as Whitaker, will be future teammates at Notre Dame. 

The 3A boys team title went to Council Rock North with 134 points, as they barely edged out La Salle College (136 points). 

It was another year, another state title for the North Allegheny girls. Led by senior Eva Kynaston’s second place (18:19) finish, the team had three runners In the top 20 to finish with 80 points and secure the team’s sixth consecutive title. 

Individually, Logan St. John Kletter of Mount Lebanon finished first in 18:13. 

Mohawk’s Jaxon Schedel won the Class 1A race in a time of 16:09, while Council Rock North edged out for the title. 

In girls 1A, Moravian Academy’s Virginia Kraus took top honors, crossing the line first in 18:50.

The team championship went to Elk County with 63 points.

Team Championships

Class 3A: Council Rock North boys 134; North Allegheny girls 80 points - RESULTS

Class 2A: Hampton boys 66 points; Danville Area girls 82 points - RESULTS

Class 1A: Annville-Cleona boys 91 points; Elk County girls 63 points - RESULTS