TEMPLE, Texas — August 28, 2026 — The Belton New Tech Dragons continued their cross country season Friday morning at the Pro-Fit Cross Country Invitational at Wilson Park in Temple, turning in a strong effort despite challenging late-August heat.

The Dragons competed against a large field of runners from across Central Texas, with both the boys and girls teams showing determination and continued improvement as the season progresses.

Boys Results

Daniel Zubaty led the Dragon boys with an impressive 21:00.46, finishing 90th overall. Zubaty continues to establish himself as a strong young runner for New Tech early in his Sophomore season.

Abel Carey followed with a time of 23:09.68, placing 128th, while David Martinez crossed the finish line in 24:07.81 for 136th place. Senior Desmond Long rounded out the New Tech boys with a time of 26:07.65, finishing 144th.

Girls Results

On the girls side, sophomore Ellie Megoulloa once again led the Dragons, finishing 74th overall with a time of 16:18.74.

Freshman Nyla Mathews continued her strong start to the season, placing 108th in 17:27.29, while junior Daniella Idumebor finished 124th with a time of 18:25.58.

Julisa Bedolla-Martinez crossed the finish line in 22:01.11, and Melyann Tort-Negron completed the course in 24:20.42, giving the Dragons five finishers on the girls side.

The hot conditions made Friday's race a test of both physical fitness and mental toughness, but the Dragons responded well and gained valuable racing experience as they continue building toward the heart of the cross country season.

Belton New Tech Results

Boys

90 — Daniel Zubaty — 21:00.46
128 — Abel Carey — 23:09.68
136 — David Martinez — 24:07.81
144 — Desmond Long — 26:07.65

Girls

74 — Ellie Megoulloa — 16:18.74
108 — Nyla Mathews — 17:27.29
124 — Daniella Idumebor — 18:25.58
136 — Julisa Bedolla-Martinez — 22:01.11
132 — Melyann Tort-Negron — 24:20.42

The Dragons will look to carry the experience and toughness gained at Wilson Park into their next competition as the 2026 season continues.