Burnet’s Aviles signs to run for Rice University

CAPTION: Hector Vega (left), Hudson Bennett and Lotus Running coach Carlo Martinez Victor Aviles-Salgado (right) congratulate Victor Aviles (second from right) on signing with Rice University. Photo by Martelle Luedecke/Luedecke Photography

Burnet High School senior middle-distance runner Victor Aviles made his commitment to Rice University official May 19 by signing to run for the Owls.

Middle-distance coach Crystal Shipley summed up what Rice is getting in Aviles.

“An incredible student-athlete,” she said. “I believe there is so much more left in that kid, and he will be pushed to his highest level. I cannot wait to see what he does when given the opportunity to practice at such a competitive level.”

Aviles, who is the reigning Class 4A state champion in the 800 and 1,600 meters and the runner-up in the 3,200 meters, said Rice offered the combination of challenging academics and competitive running he was looking for.

“Out of all the opportunities, I think that’s the best place for me,” he said. “Their athletics is still very strong. I know it’s tough to get into Rice.”

It is believed that those who are accepted into Rice have a great shot at getting accepted into most Ivy League universities as well as Stanford University.

In addition to being a champion runner, Aviles also is known as a gifted scholar.

“Every teacher who knows Victor will say what an incredible student he is,” Shipley said. “He is the salutatorian of the very competitive class of 2025. It is a very bright class of kiddos, so for him to be No. 2 says a lot about him. He is going to do amazing things because of how intelligent he is. He is driven by more than just his athletic abilities, and that makes him super special and such a steal for Rice.” 

The Bulldog said his classmates pushed him to study hard.

“It’s definitely hard to stay up there in the top spots,” he said.

Rice coaches have talked to him about running the 1,500 meters, Aviles said.

“But I’ll probably be doing the 800,” said the Bulldog, who won two state titles in the event.

Aviles reached out to Rice coaches soon after the track season ended May 1. Once they offered, he accepted pretty quick, which was about 10 days ago, he added.

“He has left a legacy for sure and has proven over and over again that hard work pays off and I think he will leave BHS feeling fulfilled,” Shipley said. 

The son of Felis Aviles-Salgado plans to major in mechanical engineering.

During the last several years, Aviles said he learned how to have a positive attitude and believe in himself.

“I want to be remembered as a humble guy, who always tried his best,” he said. “I give thanks to everyone who helped me. I think my coaches played a big role. (Former middle-distance coach Kristi) Jones has been my coach for six years. She always pushed me to believe in myself. That helped me realize what I can do and believe in myself. The big lesson I learned in high school is that it’s important to have good people around you. I thank everyone who’s helped me. It’s what makes life beautiful.”

CAPTION: Victor Aviles (center) and his numerous Burnet High School teammates display the Rice University hand gesture during his signing ceremony May 19. Photo by Martelle Luedecke/Luedecke Photography