Texas A&M International University Athletics

2015:
Benavides started his Senior season with another Top 10 finish, at the TAMIU Invitational he finished in 6th place. AT the RIce Invitational, a Division 1 dominated field, Benavides finished in the Top 100. Rafael finshed 4th at the SWTJC Invitational with a time of 17:11. Benavides captured a Top 15 finish (13th) at the UIW Invitational. At the Heartland Conference Championships Rafael crossed the finish line in 28th place,

2014:
As a Junior Benavides finished 8th at the Heartland Conference Championships. The finish was good enough to qualify him for the NCAA Division 2 South Central Region Cross Country Championships. His season was highlighted with (2) additional Top 10 finishes. At the UTSA Invitational Benavides finshed 9th with a time of 16:27. Benavides also finished 9th at the Corpus Christi Islander Splash. 

2013:
Benavides completed his Sophomore season for the Dustdevils.

2012:
Benavides competed as a Freshman for the Dustdevils.

High School: Zapata High School (Class of 2012)
During his time at Zapata High School Benavides lettered in cross country and track for (4) years. Rafael was an AAU Junior Olympic Steeplechase National Qualifier. In 2010 Benavides was on the Zapata Cross Country team which qualified for the Texas High School Cross Country State Championship. In 2010, 2011, and 2012 Benavides was a Regional Qualifier in cross country and track.
 
Personal: 
Rafael is the son of Maria and Rafael. He has on brother, Manuel. He chose TAMIU because the campus layout and the opportunities the university offers. His role models are his parents. After TAMIU Rafael wants to become a teacher and cross country coach. In his free time Benavides enjoys running.

Major: Biology
Minor: Kinesiology