Junction's Aiden Cardwell Wins UIL 2A 300H State Title

2025 UIL 2A 300-Meter Hurdles

The 2025 UIL Boys 2A 300-meter hurdles was a dramatic and emotional race that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. Coming in, Brayden Cervantes of Forsan and Aiden Cardwell of Junction were the favorites, both having posted sub-40-second times this season. As the gun went off, Cervantes shot out of lane 5 with an aggressive, fearless attack on the hurdles, setting a blistering early pace. Major Morris of Beckville also impressed in the early stages from lane 7, while Cardwell kept himself calmly in the mix, showing the poise of an experienced senior.

The race built to a thrilling climax as Cervantes and Cardwell were side by side heading into the final hurdle, poised to battle for gold. But heartbreak struck when Cervantes, despite running a near-perfect race, clipped the last hurdle and fell, opening the door for Cardwell to surge ahead and claim the gold medal in 39.18. Kalab Castillo of Agua Dulce capitalized on the chaos to take second in 40.77, just edging out Gruver freshman Mason Lankford, who impressed with a 40.78 for bronze.

In a true display of sportsmanship, Robert Fogle of Whitewright, who also fell on the course, stopped to help Cervantes up, and the two crossed the finish line together, earning a round of applause from the crowd. It was a race that not only showcased speed and skill but also resilience and heart-one that will be remembered long after the medals are awarded.