Buddy Harris

Fifty-plus years after his graduation in 1972, the late Robert “Buddy” Harris remains one of the most decorated runners from Avon High School. A member of the Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Track teams, Harris was a two-time outdoor state champion in the two mile (1971 and 1972) with a best of 4th at the State Open (1970). He ran an impressive 9:56 two miles when he was just a freshman, beating a record holding upperclassman from Farmington. Buddy was also a state champion in cross country in 1971 and runner-up in 1970. He still holds the outdoor two-mile/3200 M school record after 50 years.

After Avon, Buddy went on to run on the track and cross-country teams at UMass Dartmouth (formerly Southeastern Massachusetts University) from 1972-1975. As co -captain, he led the 1975 cross-country team to 5th place in NCAA Division III championships, helping his team finish with a 51-6 four-year record and three consecutive national championship appearances. The UMass Dartmouth annual Cross-country Invitational is named in his honor. Recognized for his positive attitude, outgoing personality, and dedication/contributions to the sport, Buddy was inducted into the UMass Dartmouth Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001.

In addition to his running prowess, Buddy was a talented musician and beloved friend. His classmates and teammates admired and appreciated his good sportsmanship and strong leadership, and for his affable demeaner.

Buddy Harris died in 2002 of wounds sustained after being hit by a drunk driver. His sister, Peg, is accepting the Avon Falcons Athletic Hall of Fame award on his behalf.