SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Carson-Newman made a strong showing at the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional Cross Country Championship, with both the men's and women's squads finishing in the top half of the competition.
The meet, held at the Milliken Center in Spartanburg, S.C., saw teams from across the region battling for a chance to qualify for the national championships in Sacramento, Calif. Out of 30 schools competing, the Eagles locked up two top 15 finishes with the men's team securing 15th place overall and the women's team finishing 12th.
"Overall, great weekend from our team," said head coach Brent Borden. "We had some solid team finishes, especially considering the smaller team that we had this year. To come away with a 15th place finish on the men's side beating out Lenoir-Rhyne, Mars Hill, and Emory & Henry, who we lost to at conference, was a big deal."
For the men's squad, it was a standout performance by Colten Lee that led the charge. The junior from Carson-Newman crossed the line in 16th place in the 10K race in a remarkable effort that earned him All-Region honors. This recognition marks another milestone in Lee's impressive collegiate career. The Eagles saw solid performances out of Henry Hunter coming in 81st place followed by Garrett Wilson in 104th and Andrew Thompson in 105th.
"What I saw more than anything today was fight and determination from everybody," said Borden. "Everyone gave their all, which is the message I've preached coming to the championship race and we have no regrets. Everyone went out there and gave their all on the course and that is all we can ask for and it was a great way to close out the season."
On the women's side, it was sophomore Jenna Pittman who stood out. Competing in the 6K race, Pittman finished 20th overall, earning All-Region honors as well. Her strong finish helped propel the Carson-Newman women's team to a solid 12th place showing, placing them ahead of many other SACprograms. The women's squad was also helped by Maggie Hope earning 67th place, Carmela Smock in 70th and Peyton Couch in 71st place.
"We wanted everyone to have an attacking mindset," Borden said. "Competing, chasing, and passing others the entire race. Not being complacent or settling but continuing to keep your foot on the gas is what we saw today. I think we ended the season on a high note from an individual and a team standpoint."
Carson-Newman wrapped up the season with this meet and looked forward to resting up before track season. There is still the possibility for some C-N runners to qualify for Nationals taking place in Sacramento, Calif.
To stay up with everything carson-Newman cross country, please visit cneagles.com.
