COSTA MESA – Austin Tamagno delivered his final salvo as a Brea Olinda Wildcat on Saturday.
The Oregon signee won his final high school race, taking his 800-meter heat in 1:53.62 at the CIF-SS Division 3 Prelims at Estancia High.
Tamagno forfeited his spot in next week’s CIF-SS Finals, choosing instead to commit himself to training for the upcoming Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Ore., where he will be running the mile in two weeks.
“I’ve been given these opportunities to go and run at the next level,” Tamagno said. “I did not want to give up that opportunity. I think it’s time for me to move on, start racing pros, and see where my fitness is at this year.”
The senior had been competing in 800 races as part of his coaches’ plan to work on his speed. He is not cutting his season short by any stretch of the imagination, as he will have the Brooks PR meet on June 18 in Seattle.
As celebrated a distance runner as the county has had, Tamagno accrued countless accolades.
Tamagno broke the county record in the mile at the Mt. SAC Relays (4:03.21). In cross country, he was a back-to-back individual and team state champion. He also owns the Mt. SAC course record at 14:23.2.
“It’s bittersweet,” Tamagno said of hanging up his Brea jersey. “I’ve had so many good memories being a Brea Wildcat.”
“This year, I’ve gotten the closest I’ve ever been with my teammates. They’ve been very supportive, and I can’t thank them enough. They’ve been by my side through it all.”
