Cohen Butler, a senior from Camas High School, has been named the 2025‑26 Gatorade Washington Boys Cross Country Runner of the Year, the honor recognizing not only his athletic excellence but also his character and academic achievements. The announcement was first reported by The Columbian on February 13, 2026. Read more.

This award follows a standout cross country season in which Butler achieved several remarkable milestones. In November 2025, he claimed the Class 4A state championship at the WIAA state meet in Pasco, setting a 4A meet record with his time of 14:47.9 and delivering one of the fastest finishes across all classifications—sixth‑fastest statewide since the course was lengthened in 1997. Camas‑Washougal Post‑Record.

Butler’s season included other standout performances, notably at the Nike Hole in the Wall Invitational in October, where he shattered the meet record with a time of 14:36.8—surpassing previous marks held by Mercer Island’s Owen Powell. Camas‑Washougal Post‑Record. He then went on to win the Nike Cross Regional Northwest Championship in Spokane in late November, matching his personal best again with a 14:36.8 finish. Camas‑Washougal Post‑Record.

Butler capped the fall season by competing at the Nike Cross Nationals in Portland on December 6, where he placed 55th in the national championship race, crossing the line in 15:59.2. Despite finishing outside his goal of All‑American placement, he described the experience as memorable and enjoyable. Camas‑Washougal Post‑Record.

Throughout the season, Butler averaged 60 to 80 miles of training per week, battled through a sprained ankle sustained two days before the state championship yet still delivered a commanding wire‑to‑wire win, and completed his high school cross country career on a high note. These performances helped underpin his selection as the Gatorade Washington Boys Cross Country Athlete of the Year.

Why this matters
While the Gatorade Player of the Year awards are typically most closely followed in larger communities—or in connection with future college or national prominence—the recognition of Cohen Butler represents a significant local achievement for Camas and Cowlitz County. Butler not only set course and state records; he demonstrated a level of consistent excellence, resilience, and competitive spirit that elevates the profile of cross country running across the region.

Butler’s recognition also serves as an inspiration to other student‑athletes in Longview, Kelso, and broader Cowlitz County—highlighting that elite accolades and state‑level honors are within reach. It underscores the importance of rigorous training, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the rewards of steady progression through high school athletics.

Looking ahead, Butler’s next steps—whether in NCAA Division I running or beyond—remain to be determined, but his graduating class leaves Camas with a legacy of excellence. Columbia Countercurrent will monitor any further developments as he moves forward beyond high school.