Jessica Dunnigan, a 2011 graduate of Liberty High School, excelled as a sprinter and jumper, earning her place among Section IX’s elite athletes. Her impressive indoor records include the 55M, 4x400M relay, triple jump, and long jump, while her outdoor achievements consist of records in the 100M, 200M, 4x100M relay, 4x200M relay, long jump, and triple jump, many of which remain unbeaten today. Dunnigan secured two state titles in the 200M in 2010 and 2011 and represented the Hudson Valley at the 2010 Empire State Games. Continuing her athletic journey, she attended Northeastern University, where she placed third in the heptathlon at the CAA Championships. Despite her numerous accolades throughout her career, Dunnigan expressed her gratitude during her Hall of Fame induction, stating, “It is truly an honor and a privilege to be inducted into the Section IX Track & Field Hall of Fame. To be recognized alongside so many outstanding athletes, coaches, and individuals who have made a lasting impact on the sport is incredibly humbling. Track and field has been such a meaningful part of my life, shaping not only who I was as an athlete but also the person I am today. The memories, friendships, lessons, and experiences I gained throughout my career will always hold a special place in my heart. I am incredibly grateful to my coaches, teammates, family, and everyone who supported and believed in me along the way.”

Larry Armstead is a 1990 graduate of Monticello High School. Early in his career, he was named Freshman Orange County Champion in the triple jump, setting numerous OCL and Section IX records. His 1988 indoor triple jump mark of 47’10.25” is a record that still stands today. After graduation, Armstead went on to compete for Clemson University, where he earned accolades as a two-time ACC champion, a three-time All-ACC honoree, and achieved All-American status with a jump of 52’9”, among other accomplishments. Armstead reflects that track and field played a defining role in shaping who he is today. He spoke candidly about his high school years and his humble beginnings. His cousin, Richard Armstead, taught him how to jump. “Proud is the first word that comes to mind. I am proud of the hard work I put in and to represent Monticello,” he said, with Panther pride still evident all these years later. “To be in a room alongside athletes from Orange County brings a sense of pride that I carry with me.” Armstead also recalled how his boss at the arcade allowed him to study during work hours to help him maintain good grades. “This is really a community award,” he shared, expressing gratitude to everyone who crossed his path. “A lot of people made this possible.”

1985 graduate of Monticello High School, Gwen McCrae was once hailed by renowned sportswriter Chuck Hahn as Section IX’s finest athlete. Coach Ken Garry shared his thoughts about McCrae, saying, “Gwen McCrae can only be described as an athletic colossus! She was modest and not in awe of her athletic achievements!” McCrae earned a record 25 indoor and outdoor Section IX gold medals ahead of the state championships, where she collected 11 additional indoor track meet medals. McCrae was consistently a top 5 member of Monticello’s cross-country team, running a sub-20:00 on the famous Bear Mountain course. McCrae held records in every event from the 55 meters to 800 meters, as well as all of the sprint relays. After graduation, McCrae attended the University of Houston on a full athletic scholarship, running on the Cougars’ medal-winning 4x100 team at the NCAA Championships in 1986. Garry spoke candidly about McCrae recalling a day after practice when she was challenged by one of her male teammates to a 60-meter dash, saying, “A fast girl always beats a not-as-fast boy!” The crowd erupted with laughter! McCrae commented, “It’s humbling. I am grateful for being inducted into the Hall of Fame. And I’m thankful to Coach Garry for always showing up and believing in our team.” 

Miguel “Crazy Horse” Castillo was a proud graduate of Monticello High School’s class of 1985. He earned his nickname due to the dramatic way he finished his races back in his younger days. Known for his versatility and range, Castillo still holds impressive indoor records in the 600M 1,000M, and 1,600M, and the 800M and 1,600M in outdoor. His passion for running extended beyond the track to the streets, with some of his favorite races including the Orange Classic and the well-known Monster 10K run. Castillo excelled as a three-event athlete at the Empire State Games, where he won a bronze medal in the 800M during the 1984 competition. He also claimed numerous titles in OCL and Section IX events. In 1985, he was honored as Sullivan County Athlete of the Year. Following his high school career, Castillo continued to compete at the collegiate level at Penn State. Reflecting on his achievements, Castillo stated, “It was a great honor to receive this award. Although running is not a part of my life anymore, this is a great wrap-up to my running career. I enjoyed being in the room surrounded by a lot of great coaches and athletes. I want to give a shoutout to all the coaches who are still working with and influencing all the kids in the area and helping to keep running programs alive.”