When Pedro Rios graduated from Palo Verde High School in 2014, he had one goal: to keep running. In 2021, he joined CSN’s first cross-country team and thought his dream was finally taking shape. But, as life likes to show us, balancing college and competition was harder than expected.
Struggles in the classroom left him ineligible, and he was eventually suspended. Around the same time, he lost a loved one. It was a season of setbacks, but Pedro never walked away. He stayed close to Coach Manny Astudillo and kept showing up for the program, even when he couldn’t compete.
CSN was here for him, even when he was at his low point.
By 2023, Pedro was ready to come back. With support from Coach Astudillo and academic advisor Betsy Anderson, he re-enrolled, hit the books hard, and pulled straight A’s. His GPA climbed and his eligibility returned. Then an injury cost him another season.
In 2025, Pedro became a father. He took time off to be there for his family, then laced up again that fall for his first race in four years. Now, he’s set to graduate this December and welcome twins in November!
For his teammates, Pedro’s story is bigger than a return to competition.
“He’s been a great example for the younger athletes,” Astudillo said. “His perseverance and commitment to his goals are exactly what we hope to instill in all of our athletes. I couldn’t be more proud of the man he has become.”
Pedro’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t about the straight path. It’s about finding the strength to keep moving forward, no matter how many times you’re knocked down.
This Hispanic Heritage Month we celebrate students like Pedro!
