Lowen, Pifer Named 2025 Runners of the Year

ATLANTA - Dec. 10, 2025 - Two of the most dominant runners in Georgia high school history were recognized as the 2025 All-Metro Cross Country Runners of the Year Wednesday night at Atlanta Track Club's 61st annual All-Metro Cross Country Awards.

In addition to celebrating the best in high school distance running, Atlanta Track Club announced a groundbreaking initiative: Every All-Metro honoree will receive a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) offer as part of the Club's commitment to supporting the next generation of athletes. Underclassmen will receive a full year of support valued at $2,500, while graduating seniors will receive six months of benefits. The NIL package includes footwear, branded and licensed apparel from adidas and a modest stipend for those who agree to serve as ambassadors for Atlanta Track Club and its partners.

"The All-Metro Cross Country Awards are Atlanta Track Club's oldest tradition, dating back to 1964," said Rich Kenah, CEO of Atlanta Track Club. "By adding NIL benefits to our honorees, we are leaning into a shifting landscape where athletes are being supported and rewarded for their hard work and sacrifices. This program reflects our belief that these young runners deserve recognition not only for their performances but for the dedication and leadership they bring to our sport. As visible ambassadors of the Club, they will help us communicate the value of our mission to the community."

Junior Averi Lowen of Bowdon High School earned her second consecutive Runner of the Year title following a record-breaking season in which she shattered the GHSA State Championship course record with a time of 16:56.12 - the fastest ever recorded at Carrollton. Already a three-time state champion and nationally ranked, Lowen went undefeated in Georgia and broke the Wingfoot XC Classic course record, where she ran 16:28.1 - the fastest time run on Georgia soil in history.

On the boys' side, senior Jameson Pifer of Collins Hill High School capped off a breakout season by earning the top honor. Pifer posted Georgia's fastest 5K this year - 14:37.7 at the Alexander Asics Invitational - and followed it with a commanding win at the GHSA 6A State Championship meet. He becomes the first male athlete from Gwinnett County to win Runner of the Year since 2019.

Also honored Tuesday was Mary Nesmith of Marietta High School, who was recognized as a four-time All-Metro honoree, joining an elite group of athletes to earn the distinction all four years of their high school careers. Nesmith, an eight-time state champion across multiple distances, finished third at the 6A state meet this fall and posted a season best of 17:54.7.

"This year's Runners of the Year didn't just win, they redefined what's possible," said Kenah. "Averi and Jameson have elevated Georgia cross country to a national level. And Mary's consistency over four years reminds us what commitment looks like. These athletes are rewriting the record books, yes, but they're also reshaping the culture of high school distance running in Atlanta."

Held at Midtown's Curate, the invitation-only banquet honored 42 high school runners from 16 counties across metro Atlanta. Athletes were selected for first, second and third All-Metro teams based on their state meet performances, season bests, major invitational wins and head-to-head results. During the evening, each honoree was introduced on stage with a personalized highlight reel before receiving their All-Metro award and participating in live interviews.

"This event has been special for me every year... I'm so grateful to be able to join the past four years," Nesmith said. "Cross country has been life-changing for me, and when I look back on my high school career, it's where I found all of my favorite memories, so [being an All-Metro athlete] has been such a gift."

The All-Metro Cross Country Awards are Atlanta Track Club's oldest tradition, dating back to 1964. More than 6,000 athletes have received All-Metro honors over the past six decades. A full list of honorees is available below. Photos and video highlights from the evening were posted on Atlanta Track Club's social media channels.