The first signs of cross country season at Randolph School arrive well before the opening gun of the first race. They appear during quiet summer mornings at John Hunt Park, on the trails of Monte Sano, and through countless miles logged together before most of Huntsville has started its day. Those early mornings have laid the foundation for what the Raiders hope will be another memorable fall.

Few programs in Alabama carry the tradition that surrounds Randolph Boys’ Cross Country. The Raiders' nine consecutive AHSAA state championships from 2005-2013 remain the state record for consecutive boys cross country team titles, a standard of excellence that continues to inspire every new generation of runners who pull on the Raider uniform. Randolph has captured 9 boys state championships overall, cementing its place among the state's premier distance running programs.

The 2026 Randolph Boys’ Cross Country team enters the season with a roster that blends experienced leadership with a talented group of young runners eager to make their mark. After months of consistent summer training, the Raiders believe their greatest strength may not be found in one standout runner, but in the depth and camaraderie that have become hallmarks of the program.

At the heart of this year's team is a senior class that has helped shape the culture of Randolph cross country over the past four years. Jasper Howse, Lucas Israel, Landon Lee, Mason Mackiewicz, and Andrew Walker have experienced the highs and lows that come with the sport, and they now carry the responsibility of leading the next generation of Raiders. Their influence extends far beyond race results.

Whether encouraging teammates through difficult workouts, setting the pace during summer training, or demonstrating the consistency required for success, the five seniors have helped create an environment where everyone is expected to improve.

"This senior class has been incredibly dependable," Head Coach James "Twig" Terwilliger said. "They've learned that success in cross country isn't about one great workout or one great race—it's about showing up every day and putting in the work. They've embraced that mindset, and now they're passing it on to our younger runners. As coaches, that's exactly what you hope to see."

That leadership will be especially valuable as the Raiders navigate another challenging schedule against many of the state's top programs. Internal competition has been fierce throughout the offseason, and coaches believe the battle for varsity positions will continue to make the team stronger with each passing week.

The Raiders will also have the opportunity to compete on familiar ground twice during the championship portion of the season. Randolph will host the Randolph Invitational on Saturday, October 17, before welcoming schools from across North Alabama back to John Hunt Park in Huntsville for the AHSAA Section 4 Championships on Thursday, October 29. Racing on one of Alabama's premier cross country venues gives the Raiders a chance to showcase their home course while competing in front of classmates, family members, alumni, and the Huntsville running community.

Terwilliger believes the team's ceiling will ultimately be determined by its willingness to continue trusting the process that has defined Randolph cross country for decades.

"Our goals are always bigger than times or places," Terwilliger said. "We want these young men to become tougher, more resilient, and better teammates every single day. If we continue doing the little things well, the results will take care of themselves."

As the calendar turns toward the opening meets of the season, expectations remain high—not because of preseason rankings or predictions, but because of the work already completed. For the 2026 Raiders, the miles have been logged, the foundation has been built, and another chapter in Randolph's proud cross country tradition is ready to unfold.