Luis Pastor Transfers to UTEP Track Team

Distance runners training on a sunny day, showcasing teamwork and dedication.

News Summary

Luis Pastor, a former standout distance runner at Coronado High School, has announced his transfer to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) track and cross-country team. After two years at the University of Texas, Pastor aims to rejuvenate his athletic career under new coach Francesca Green. Despite setbacks due to injury and a redshirt year, he remains optimistic about competing at the national level. Pastor’s impressive background includes finishing as runner-up in the UIL State Championships and excelling at various competitions.

El Paso, Texas

Former Coronado High School distance runner Luis Pastor has announced his transfer to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) after spending two years at the University of Texas. The signing was made public by UTEP the day after the hiring of Francesca Green as the new head track and cross-country coach.

Pastor has an impressive athletic background. In 2023, he was the runner-up in the UIL State Championships in the 1600 meters, finishing with a time of 4:09.04 seconds. He also placed third in the 3200 meters during the same championships, with a time of 8:57.35 seconds. Both of these personal-best times surpassed the previous Coronado school records held by notable distance runner Alan Culpepper from El Paso.

Despite his success, Pastor missed the 2023-2024 cross-country and track seasons at Texas due to a combination of a redshirt year and an injury. Earlier in 2023, he excelled at the Louisville Invitational, winning the mile with a time of 4:09.10 seconds. He also recorded an indoor time of 1:53.59 seconds at the Razorback Invitational in Arkansas, although he did not compete in the outdoor season.

Pastor has expressed optimism that returning to UTEP will help rejuvenate his athletic career. He has characterized his time at Texas as a valuable learning experience, focusing on personal growth despite encountering challenges that prevented him from achieving his goals. Currently, he is training in Provo, Utah, alongside professional runners and members of the BYU team to enhance his performance.

Transition to UTEP Under New Coaching

Initially uncertain about transferring to UTEP following the resignation of previous coach Mika Laaksonen, Pastor found clarity after engaging with Green via a Zoom meeting. He has expressed confidence in her vision for the program and her dedication to supporting athletes in reaching their full potential.

As Pastor joins the UTEP track and cross-country teams, he is determined to make an immediate impact and aspires to compete at the national level. He is recognized as one of the most accomplished distance runners in El Paso high school history and is now returning to compete for the Miners.

Background on Luis Pastor

Pastor’s accolades and experience solidify his reputation within the local athletics community. During his time at Coronado High School, he established himself as a standout performer with skills and achievements that resonate within the competitive landscape of high school track and field.

The decision to transfer comes amidst a backdrop of personal challenges and developmental aspirations. As Pastor navigates his transition to UTEP, he encourages fellow athletes to persevere in pursuit of their dreams, reinforcing the notion that setbacks can lead to growth and new opportunities.

As UTEP prepares to integrate Pastor into their program, both he and his new coach are hopeful for a fruitful partnership aimed at harnessing his potential and contributing significantly to the Miners’ success in future competitions.