Briarcliff Runner Out-Shines the Competition

's Stephen Shine, now ranked among the top 20 cross country runners in the state, has only been competing for a few short years.

"I knew nothing about the sport before I started running for [Coach Sean Ryan] my freshman year," he revealed.

Shine, now a junior, was recognized last night as being one of the greatest runners the district has "ever" seen, according to Ryan.

"The school has never had a runner at this talent," said Ryan, who has been involved with the program in various forms "for the better part of 40 years."

"I believe that cross country is the highest-populated sport in all of New York State athletics," he said. "There's over 25,000 runners who ran cross-country and for Stephen to be up in the top 20 is an unbelievable accomplishment and a tribute to his talent."

Added High School Principal James Kaishian, "He garnered all-league, all-county and all-state recognition in his time on the cross-country track. He recently ran in the Federation Run in Verona, NY...and set a personal best on a very difficult course."

During that 5,000-meter race on November 19, Shine placed 10th out of 250 competitors, completing the course at 16:13.2.

Shine thanked his coach and said "none of it would be possible without him."

Ryan said the athlete's accomplishments have him well setup to "continue his career beyond Briarcliff High School."

"He's got a work ethic beyond anything I've ever seen," Ryan added. "I'm very proud to be his coach, I'm thrilled with his performance."

Shine received a certificate of recognition from the board of education and superintendent.

Joked Superintendent Neal Miller—"When I run, all I think of is 'Ouch!' You're probably in a little better shape."

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