Trae Baker went to the very top of the Class 5A cross country list as he captured a state championship for Tahlequah on Oct. 28 at Edmond Santa Fe High School.
Baker posted a time of 15:41.26, which was 27 seconds better than Guymon’s Adam Sium. His time also helped the Tigers to a third-place finish in the team standings.
“Winning a state championship is one of the best feelings. When you have been training since May and knowing that it all paid off was a big relief,” Baker said. “Although it was a big goal achieved, I can’t get comfortable or content, I got a lot more work to do.
“The moment I crossed the finish line I thanked God, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today without him and I’m forever blessed.”
The Tigers accomplished a first as a team with three of their runners earning all-state accolades. Jalen Hooper and Jacob Tiger joined Baker as top 10 finishers. Hooper ran a 16:21.43, and Tiger closed with a 16:28.63.
“Having two of my teammates all-state was a cherry on top. They have been working their butts off and I’m just happy for them,” Baker said. “Having three all-staters has never happened in Tahlequah cross country. We also ran a 16:43 average, which I believe is the fastest 5k split Tahlequah has ever done.”
Baker, a recent University of Central Arkansas commit and also a standout as a runner on the track, is a qualifier for the New Balance Outdoor Nationals, which will take place in Philadelphia in June.
“I think I improved my strength and didn’t have that mentality that I was just a track guy,” Baker said of his final season in cross country. “I just wanted to keep improving and get better each week.”
Baker, who was a runner-up in the 800 meter run with a 1:54.60 last spring at the OSSAA Track & Field State Championships in Yukon, has been the most influenced by someone in his immediate family.
“My biggest influence has definitely been my dad,” he said. “He has never really missed a meet in my running career and has been one of my biggest supporters since day one.”
Before capturing his state title, Baker was a regional champion at O’Brien Park in Owasso where he ran a 15:49.76. He was also a Metro Lakes Conference champion when he posted a 15:58.32 in Tahlequah.
