By Katie Smith, A&E Editor
The women’s cross country team finished up its season at regionals on Nov. 9.
Senior Klair Gibson lead the team at the NCAA competition, placing 79th out of more than 200 racers. The team itself did not rank during regionals.
This year was the first year for the team to compete in the NCAA conference since Newman switched conferences.
“I feel like it’s because we’re in a different conference and there’s a lot harder competition,” Gibson said. “I feel like our team is very talented, but the other teams that we were competing against also had a lot of talent.”
The team was able to place 12th in the MIAA Championships in Joplin, Missouri, where Gibson also lead the team, coming in 32nd with a 6k time of 23:11.
Two athletes, Lauren Nutting and Emilee Endsley, set their personal records during this race, with times 23:23 and 24:53, respectively.
Coach Josh Schepis said that Gibson’s time was the fifth fastest time in Newman history for a 6k.
Even though the team struggled during the season due to injuries and new competitors, the team members said that they are still hopeful for their future seasons.
“We had a lot of injuries this season, so I think one area the team could focus on going forth would be to take care of themselves as best as possible throughout the entire season, injury or no injury. Other than that though I think the team is great,” Gibson said.
PHOTO: Courtesy Photo, Newman Athletics.
