Admiral Robert and HelenAnn Phillips pose with 2026 Santa Fe Striders scholarship winner August Ovaska. Courtesy photo

SANTA FE STRIDERS NEWS RELEASE

The Santa Fe Striders are excited to announce the recipients of the 2026 Santa Fe Striders Scholarships for cross-country and/or track athletes. The Santa Fe Striders Scholarship is an athletic scholarship based on athletic accomplishments with criteria for academics and community service. This is the third year the HelenAnn Phillips Inspiration Scholarship has
been awarded. The Santa Fe Scholarships are funded by Admiral Robert and HelenAnn Phillips and the Corrida de Los Locos race. Since 2021, the Santa Fe Striders have awarded $30,500 to runners.

Brandyn Encinias. Pecos High School/Courtesy photo

Brandyn Encinias is a graduate of Pecos High School. He will be attending Adams State University to major in criminology, with the goal of becoming a game warden. He plans on competing in the cross-country, indoor, and outdoor track programs. Brandyn was named The Santa Fe New Mexican Small Schools Male Athlete of the Year for the 2024-2025 season. He led the cross-country team to two state championships. Additionally, Brandyn was the 2026 2A NMAA State Champion in the 3,200-meter run. He also helped the sprint medley, 4×400 meter, and 4×200-meter relay teams win the 2026 2A State Championships and set meet records. Brandyn has earned more than 8 State medals.

August Ovaska. Los Alamos High School/Courtesy photo

Michael Maestas. Espanola Valley High School/Courtesy photo

Michaels Maestas is a graduate of Española Valley High School. He will be attending the University of New Mexico to major in biology and eventually attend medical school. He was a two-year qualifier for the District Championship meets and one-year for the 2025 4A NMAA State Track Championship meet. Michael was named team captain during his senior year. Additionally, he was a member of the National Honor Society and completed more than 100 hours of community service.