The UCA cross-country team strode to success in the ASUN Conference meet, in Nashville, Tennessee.
The women’s team finished fifth overall in the 5K, with Junior Madeline Hill named All-Conference Runner.
Hill showcased her impressive time of 17:43.0 and was the first Bear to cross the finish line.
“This has definitely been a breakthrough season for me,” Hill said. “I’ve been able to race towards the front of some very competitive races and I’ve run several personal bests as well. Conference was a great cap to our season. It was very cool to see how much the team has progressed from last year as well as myself.”
Followed by Hill, Senior Sarah Steimel strode across the finish line, securing her 22nd position with a time of 17:57.4.
The women’s team secured another achievement with junior Jewel Baer setting a PR with a time of 18:36.7.
Coach Josey Weaver told ucasports.com, “Extremely proud of our women’s growth. This same group of young ladies were tenth last year, and they jumped all the way up to fifth place in a year. We have eight of our ten runners returning for next year. Big-time performances from Madeline Hill (Third Team All-ASUN) and Sara Steimel. They have led our group all year long. Ali Nachtigal, Jewel Baer and Felisa Saheib stepped up for us, as well.”
The men’s team earned a sixth-place spot in the 8K after junior Jack Dingman finished first for the Bears coming in 22nd place, with a time of 25:22.5.
Dingman explained the importance of positivity on an individual level and what is to come for the team.
“I brought a positive attitude. I know that me and the guys on the team are in the best physical shape that we have ever been in. Looking ahead to next year, I believe we have the capabilities required to move up in the conference,” said Dingman. “The season has been productive. Me and many of the guys were able to set personal records across the board. Although I think that we could have performed better at the conference meet, I know that everyone is hungry to compete at regionals in two weeks.”
Junior Pete Johnson followed close behind Dingman, with a time of 25:28.6.
The UCA cross-country team will return to the course in Fayetteville, Arkansas, at the NCAA South Central Championship on Nov. 10.
Live statistics can be found on asunsports.org.