KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
HARLINGEN — The Harlingen High cross country duo of Edward Ramos and Fernando Escobar kept their promise of signing a letter of intent together. Both Ramos and Escobar committed to run cross country at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
“We’re sad because we have to leave this school and our coaching staff,” Ramos said. “But this is something the both of us have been working for.”
Both Ramos and Escobar began running together in the seventh grade and haven’t stopped since. It was during their eighth grade year at a district track meet when the two decided to make a promise to run together at the college level.
“It’s a funny story because Fernando and I were running the mile together and that’s when I told him we are going to be running together in high school so let’s do it another four years in college,” Ramos said. “This is a special day for us and it’s hard to believe sometimes just because how tough it is to get it done.”
Through the years the two have built a bond and played a key role in the turnaround for the cross country program at Harlingen High.
“It’s awesome to see how the process works and to see something build from the very beginning,” said Cardinals cross country coach Efrain Ambriz. “To see them flourish and get them to state, and be able to continue their careers is a great thing. They are humble kids and my advice to them is to just keep working hard and I do plan on seeing them – that is a must.”
Both Ramos and Escobar were four-year lettermen. Ramos was named first-team All-Valley in cross country, was a two-time cross country and track district champion, and qualified for regionals all four years.
Escobar, meanwhile, was also was named first-team All-Valley in cross country as well as a two-time district champ in track and cross country. He also set a Valley record in the steeplechase and won district in the 1600- and 3200-meter runs.
“I’m glad I did this. It’s sad to be leaving (Harlingen High) because you become a family with these coaches,” said Escobar. “They (the coaches) have always been there for us and for me to continue my career with Edward is exciting.”