ROUND ROCK – Trying out a new strategy on your sport’s biggest stage might seem like a bold move for most athletes.

But when Dripping Springs Tiger junior cross country runner Caleb Lopez bolted off the starting line in Saturday’s UIL 5A boys state championship, he instantly knew running faster than he had before was a must.

His gambit paid off 15 minutes later as Lopez secured a 10th place finish and a personal record time, highlighting a banner day for a Tiger cross country pro...