Senior David Quintana made history Saturday at the Pete Boudreaux Invitational at Highland Road Park, setting a new school record in the 5K with a winning time of 14:50. Quintana surpassed the previous school record of 14:56, held by Brady Mullen ’25, shaving six seconds off the mark and recording the third-fastest 5K time in Louisiana high school history.

Quintana’s record-setting performance highlighted a strong showing for the Blue Jays, who finished second overall in the team competition.

The race brought together some of Louisiana’s top distance runners, giving Quintana an opportunity to test himself against local competition. After staying with the lead pack through the opening miles, he made his decisive move in the final 100 meters to secure the victory. For Quintana, breaking the school record was a goal he had been pursuing since the summer. Having grown up in the program watching his older brother, Josh Quintana ’24, and accomplished Blue Jay runners like Mullen, the senior credited their example with inspiring his own development.

“It really set the tone for me seeing those guys performing so well,” Quintana said. “Seeing what they did helped everyone else.”

Head cross country coach Nick Accardo praised Quintana’s determination and ownership of his goals, explaining that the senior specifically requested to compete at the invitational for another opportunity to break the record.

“It was a really great performance for David,” Accardo said. “That win and school record is 100% him. I’m just happy to get to cheer him on.”

With a new school record and one of the fastest performances in Louisiana history, Quintana adds another milestone to the Blue Jays’ storied cross country program as the team continues its season.