Competing isn’t only about the finish line, but this season, 8th grader Grayson Lair achieved something extraordinary: he won every cross-country meet he entered. “Mentally, I feel strong,” Grayson says. “It (running) just helps your self-esteem, and it helps your focus in all ways.”
Athletic Director Jose Rivera has watched Grayson’s rise. “In sixth grade, his focus was baseball,” Rivera shared. “In 7th grade, it shifted. He fell in love with running. Last year, he was very solid for us in Cross Country and Track & Field, but this year Grayson continues to elevate.” Grayson has broken school records and now holds the course record at Esperero Canyon for cross country. He finished first at every meet, including the Kiwanis Rattlesnake Run, which took place against more than 40 schools across southern Arizona, and capped the season with a first-place finish at the championship meet, fittingly on his birthday.Rivera credits Grayson’s dedication and maturity: “We sometimes have to make sure he doesn’t overtrain, but his willingness to take on challenges and learn from mistakes shows his potential to be great. Every time I check in, he sets a new goal.” Grayson has even talked about competing at the collegiate level. For personal motivation, he writes different Bible verses on his forearm before races—an idea that’s inspired several teammates to do the same.
Middle school cross-country rewards steady growth, featuring one- to two-mile races on grass and trails, with training that combines endurance, speed work, and smart pacing. Grayson’s season reflects those fundamentals—consistent effort, thoughtful preparation, and a love of the run—lifted by teammates and coaches who embody sportsmanship and camaraderie. Way to represent, Esperero Canyon—and bravo, Grayson!

Do you have a suggestion for a CFSD Student Spotlight?  Contact Julie Farbarik at jfarbarik@cfsd16.org