Cross Country Runners Honored For Ledger Of Accomplishments In Mahwah

MAHWAH, NJ —Recording some of the fastest race times in Mahwah High School history, cross country runners Zoe Merryman and Brayden Lowe-Massi have worked hard year-round to establish themselves as forces to be reckoned with, school district officials said.

In recognition of the seniors' outstanding running careers, the district presented the athletes with certificates of achievement at Wednesday's meeting, after officials read a long list of accolades the two have accumulated.

Merryman, a "consistent and relentless competitor," outperformed expectations, Superintendent Michael DeTuro said. She placed third in the girls 5,000-meter race in the Bergen County Group Championships, and fifth in the Bergen County Meet of Champions. She then placed fifth in the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Sectionals — North 1 Meet. Her personal record is 18 minutes, 36 seconds.

Lowe-Massi, who has "grown tremendously" over his four varsity seasons at Mahwah, continued to push himself to excel and make a name for himself, Assistant Superintendent Dennis Fare said. He placed first in the boys 5,000-meter race in the Bergen County Group Championships, and seventh in the Bergen County Meet of Champions. He then placed fourth in the NJSIAA Sectionals — North 1 Meet. His personal record is 15 minutes, 52 seconds.

Both Merryman and Lowe-Massi, school officials said, are among the fastest cross country runners in school history. Off of the race course, the two have also shined in the classroom, receiving multiple scholastic awards.

School officials congratulated the student athletes and said they looked forward to seeing them continue their running careers.

"We also want to thank the coaches for taking the time to work with our students and athletes," DeTuro said. "Your ongoing commitment to the kids is greatly appreciated. We know that on a day-to-day basis you are constantly stretching them athletically and motivating them to reach their goals."