PEORIA — Civic Memorial senior Max Weber claimed the individual title at the IHSA 2A State Cross Country Meet on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at Detweiller Park in Peoria. Weber completed the three-mile course in 14 minutes, 8.5 seconds, edging out Gabriel Greer of Marion by nearly two seconds.
Weber’s victory came in a highly competitive field, with runners like Carson Kaiser of Maple Park finishing third in 14:12.9, Thomas Jochum of Glen Ellyn’s Glenbard South in fourth at 14:15.8, and Quaid Berger of Olney placing fifth with a time of 14:18.7.
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Jacob Peal, head coach of the Civic Memorial cross country team, praised Weber’s performance and race strategy. “I am so proud of Max’s historic race today, that was the second fastest time in 2A state history,” Peal said. “It was easily the most competitive 2A field ever assembled in Detweiller. So many guys could have won the 2A race. Max is one of the most intelligent racers I have ever had the opportunity to coach. He was as prepared as possibly could have been.”
Peal detailed the race dynamics, noting Weber’s ability to respond to challenges in the final stretch.
“Max knew it would come down to his kick in the last 600 meters. The Greer kid made a move with 400 to go, and Max responded and got the win by 2 seconds. I am very proud and excited for him to see a goal he had all season come to fruition,” Peal said.