AMANDA BOYD, SAN BENITO

Sport: Cross-country.

Class: Senior.

Accomplishment: Boyd won first place in the Chieftain Classic at Toro Park in Salinas on Saturday, covering the 3.1-mile course in 18 minutes, 32 seconds. A week earlier, she cruised to victory in the Earlybird Invitational at North Monterey County High in 18:22, topping her nearest competitor by 27 seconds. Last year, Boyd made the tough decision to leave the Haybalers' volleyball team and focus on running full-time. ``I told her, `You have to make the choice on your own, but I'll back you up no matter what,' '' Coach Jesse Morales said. ``I couldn't be selfish, but I was glad when she made the decision. She's such a strong runner.''