Northwest Cross Country Runner Takes State Title

Regardless of the result, Chris Miller knew Saturday's 4A State Championships at Hereford High School in Parkton would serve as the culmination of his prep cross country career.

In his four years at Northwest High School, Miller became the best boys cross country runner in Jaguar program history, according to coach Beth Muehl.

But Miller wanted more. He wanted a state title, and with about 200 meters remaining in Saturday's race, he made sure he got it.

"I kind of thought to myself this is my last chance," Miller said.

Miller went from a virtual dead heat with Walter Johnson rival Nick Regan to the lead position.

He won the championship by four seconds, finishing the race in 16:09 to complete a .

"I picked it up a lot and just went as fast as I could. I just opened up and took it," Miller said.

Despite all his success - Miller ran a career best 15:35 race in October and owns most of the Northwest cross country program's records - a dissapointing performance in Regionals on Nov. 4 had him motivated Saturday.

Miller finished fourth on a wet Watkins Mill course. Willet won that race.

I had an all in all pretty bad race," Miller said. "I guess regionals kind of set the fire."

With the state title on the line against Willet, Miller refused to allow a repeat.

Now, he can finally claim the title of state champion. He wouldn't want to go out any other way.

"I'm pretty happy with how I did," Miller said. "This is something I really wanted."

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