The cross country team is off to a great start this Fall. Following their performances at the Mineral Area Opener, Hillsboro Invitational, and Larry Young Invitational, there have been numerous accomplishments from a team and individual standpoint. In the first coaches poll of the season, our men's team was ranked #5 in the nation. This team ranking was led by Ryan Pendergast who has posted new school records in the 5k and 4 mile distances. Ryan also ranks in the top 10 in the NJCAA DIII this season for the 8k with a time of 28:23. This #5 in the nation team ranking would not have been possible without the strong performances of Logan Ray, Hielke van Oosten, Luke Montani, Jeremiah Branson, Isaak Robinson, and Josh Butters to round out our top 7.

On the women's side, there is also a lot to be excited about with a new school 2 mile record from Ashley Diaz. To this point of the season, Ashley is on pace to place high at our Regional and National Championships in November. Our team's standing has been supported by Stephanie Cunningham who has posted a 5k personal record over 2 minutes faster than her best time from last year, as well as Robyn Moore who ran her collegiate 5k debut last week. Going forward, the team looks to keep the momentum of this strong start and continue improving as the season progresses. The Cougars are back in action on October 9th at the Border War XC Championships hosted by Lindenwood University.