FLAGSTAFF, ARIZ. (August 31, 2024) – The Northern Arizona University cross country teams had dominating performances at the George Kyte Classic to begin their season on Saturday afternoon in Flagstaff.
"Our men's and women's teams are in great spots to move forward, perfect launching point to begin the season," said Director of Cross Country and Track & Field
Michael Smith.
The women's team placed seven out of ten runners for the second consecutive year. NAU finished in first with a total of 24 points.
Nikita Moore placed second with a time of 14:34.6. The Lumberjack placed a commanding hold from fourth place to 13
th place. In fourth through six were
Ava Mitchell,
Karrie Baloga, and
Maggi Congdon with times of 14:32.86, 14.34.03, and 14.37.61. This victory at the George Kyte Classic is a great start to the season for the number one nationally ranked women's team.
The men's team found success as they too placed seven out of ten runners.
David Mullarkey, a transfer from Florida State showed out as he placed first in his NAU debut with a time of 22:00.2. In second place was
Colin Sahlman running a time of 22:10.2.
Justin Keyes,
Kang Nyoak, and
Erik Le Roux placed fourth through six. Keyes finished with a time of 22:16.1, while Nyoak and Le Roux finished with times 22:32.6 and 22:34.6.
Also running for the Lumberjacks were
Ford Washburn and
Randy Espinoza placing in eighth and nineth place with times of 22:43.2 and 22:48.9.
"Early season we try not to read into it, they need to know there is a lot bigger races coming their way, they need to be ready for the best in the country," Said Smith.
The Lumberjacks will be back in action on Sept. 28, 2024 at the Dave Murray Invitational hosted by the University of Arizona. To stay up to date with NAU Cross Country, follow the Jacks on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
