SMC XC traveled to Tallahassee for the NJCAA National Championship for Cross-Country
The women's team started the day off with a 5K at Apalachee Regional Park. Leading the Pioneers was sophomore Mikayla Wilson in her SMC finale. "Mikayla raced well moving up places throughout the course. She relied on her strength to combat the heat and had a successful day of racing! She will be missed next year!"
Next, were Kiley Meadows and Mariela Velazquez. "Both runners were able to stay tough and consistent through the 5K. Mariela made a nice move after the mile to stick with the group while Kiley continued to pass runners through the race."
Finishing up the top five were Alondra Velazquez and Hali Gardner. "Alondra and Hali really showed a lot of fight today. Alondra looked flat but continued to stay motivated and Hali ran a solid race finishing out her career at SMC XC."
The men's race was highlighted by high heats, 80 degrees, and high humidity. For the first time all season, Trey Armstrong led the Pioneers through the 8K course. Following were Zander Allen and Bryce Strickland. "These guys really had to be tough out there. The heat really got to us early and it was hard to be fast late in the race."
The next group run-NEERS were Trey Tynes, Andrew Riggs, and Sam Stevens. "They continued to work together like they did all season. It was nice to see them motivate each other on the course.
"Overall, we learned a lot from this experience and we look to build upon this seasons success."
The women placed 25th while the men were 29th.
