Barrett Jesina crosses the finish line as a state qualifier, traversing the Max Cross Country Course in Waverly in 16:27.38. PHOTO BY JONATHAN MEYER

WAVERLY — Barrett Jesina has qualified for the state cross country meet, accomplishing exactly what he set out to do this season.

Coming in after a self described “disappointing” conference meet, Jesina had scouted out his competition. With the knowledge that the top 15 in the district meet moved on to state, his plan became quite clear.

Straight off the line, Jesina placed himself in contention, sitting within the qualifying window. Looking smooth and effortless, Jesina made his move around mile two.

“I was hoping to be sitting around tenth at that point in the race, when I realized I was in sixth or seventh I felt super good and kept working towards the people in front of me,” he said.

Holding strong through the rest of the race, Jesina kicked up the homestretch in a battle with Clear Creek Amana Senior Isaac Sorensen.

Upon crossing the finish line, Jesina was immediately embraced by teammate Logan Richards. More teammates joined the celebration shortly after. PHOTO BY JONATHAN MEYER

“I heard him coming and saw him pass me, I knew I was safe by that point. I used him to help me get across the finish line a little bit faster,” Jesina said.

A little bit faster was more than enough for Jesina to qualify, crossing the finish line in 16:27.38, an eighth place finish coupled with a six second personal best in the 5k. Jesina secured his spot on the starting line in Fort Dodge for the state cross country meet.

Head cross country coach Robert Tyynismaa spoke highly of the performance after the race.

“Being here a few weeks ago, Barrett learned some stuff on how to attack the course. He attached himself where he needed to. I had him projected to finish tenth so we’re satisfied with an eight place finish,” Tyynismaa said.

Meaning much more than just another race, Jesina highlighted the importance of qualifying for state.

Atop the podium with fellow state qualifiers, Jesina receives recognition for his historic run in Waverly. PHOTO BY JONATHAN MEYER

“It means a lot. A four year streak and now five of a Trojan making an appearance at state. I have an expectation to live up to. It feels right,” he said.

On the heels of Tommy Tyynismaa, James Brant, and the whole team last year making state, Jesina will continue the legacy in 2024.

The junior will run at the Lakeside Municipal Golf Course on Friday, Nov. 1 at 11:15 in the 3A boys race in Fort Dodge.