STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.— It often takes runners from youth cross country/track programs some time to adjust to the demands of high school competition, but Susan Wagner freshman Tristan Acevedo has quickly proven he can hold his own—and thrive—against top prep competitors.

So far this fall, Acevedo has put together a string of outstanding performances, setting PSAL freshman class records on multiple courses—including Van Cortlandt Park’s 5K (17:20.80 at the PSAL Marty Lewis Challenge), the Manhattan Invitational’s 1.5-mile course (7:49.4), and Ocean Breeze’s 5K route (16:01.11).

Susan Wagner head coach John Padula, a serial Island title winner during his time coaching the Falcons, said that while coaching plays a part in Acevedo’s hot start, most of his success has come from within.

“He’s be

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