Both Cross Country teams raced well in a stacked field of teams at the University of North Alabama Invitational in Florence, Ala. on Saturday, Sept. 7. Cleveland State was the only team representing the NJCAA in the meet.
The men's team looked especially exceptional. The Cougars placed sixth overall out of ten teams with 92 total runners participating. Both Erik Martinez and Diego Guzman earned top finisher shirts for their efforts in their first collegiate 8k races, running times of 26:45.63 and 26:47.25 respectively. Derek Gallardo also raced well, recording a two-minute personal best with a time of 27:25.16 and placing 22nd overall. David Tullock also scored a big personal record, finishing in 32:00.31.
"I am super proud of this men's team and their effort," head coach David Kyle said. "They are working hard and it shows. We are very close to putting it all together and winning a meet soon, I believe."
The women also ran well, placing 11th overall out of 12 total teams featuring 98 total runners. Angie Torres was the top finisher for Cleveland State with a 5k time of 24:15.32. Sadie Lane recorded a huge PR for the second straight meet, taking three minutes off of her personal best by finishing with a time of 25:11.88.
"The ladies are working hard and I think they will continue to improve their times," Kyle said. "It is always positive when you see 110% effort out of your team. They will continue working hard and the results will show it."
The Cougars will next race locally, participating in the University of Tennessee: Chattanooga's Twilight Meet on Friday. The races will begin at 6:30 ET.
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