COLLEGE CROSS COUNTRY/TRACK & FIELD: OWEGO’S STUART MAKING A RUN FOR FISHER (2023-06-07)
By TIM TAYLOR
Tioga County Sports Report
OWEGO — Jace Stuart’s senior year as an Owego distance runner was filled with both success and heartbreak.
He battled back from a medical emergency at the Section IV Class B Cross Country Championships where he collapsed less than 100 meters from winning the race (and a team championship) to become a silver and bronze medalist in individual events, and a top 5 finisher in relay at the Section IV state qualifier.
With his high school career finished, his focus now is on St. John Fisher University, having signed Tuesday to continue his running at the Rochester-area school.
“I chose St. John Fisher because they have a beautiful campus and they had the major I’m interested in,” Stuart said. “I also did a recruiting visit in the fall where I ran with some members of the cross country team which was a great experience.”
“Jace was one of the most highly regarded runners on our cross country and track teams,” Owego head cross country coach John Heath said. “He is a dedicated and competent captain. His leadership style inspires the most experienced runners and fosters the encouragement to spark interest in the newest members of our teams.”
“I think I would bring a lot to the table,” said Stuart, who has run indoor and outdoor track, and cross country for the Indians. “Over the course of six years I took on many leadership roles throughout my high school distance-running career, such as being the captain of the cross country team. I look forward to training and racing with the team and I hope to earn a scoring spot.”
Heath said the first thing Stuart did after recovering from his collapse at sectional cross country was to ask if the team won. He continued to support teammates while they prepared for the state meet.
He was recognized with a sportsmanship award at states.
Stuart will be majoring in Athletic Performance at SJF.
The Fisher men’s team finished second in the Empire 8 Conference in cross country, and placed third in both indoor and outdoor track & field.
