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November 13, 2023

FGC Women’s Cross Country Takes 10th Place at Nationals

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Huntsville, Ala. – The Florida Gateway College Women’s Cross Country Team secured their highest-ever finish at the NJCAA National Championships on Saturday, November 11, claiming the 10th position with a collective score of 292. The race unfolded at the scenic John Hunt Park in Huntsville, Alabama, where the nation’s top collegiate cross country teams ran.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for the Timberwolves, showcasing the remarkable progress and dedication of the athletes under the guidance of head coach April Morse. The team’s outstanding performance is a testament to their hard work, discipline, and competitive spirit.

“Coming into the season last August, I did not expect that this team would reset our FGC Women’s Cross Country record books,” said Morse. “The only known quantity I had was our two returnees. By the end of the season, we had two ladies under the school record, four personal records, and all had season bests.

“Two months ago, on this same course, I was gushing about having four ladies under 22 minutes for the 5K and one in the low 22s. Now at Nationals, we had four under 21 minutes and one in at 21:05, so close to having all five under 21. Our top five team average of 20:38 with a spread of only 50 seconds is a bellwether of a team’s strength.”

Leading the charge for FGC was standout freshman Sarah Simpson, who clocked in at an impressive school-record 20:15.5. Hot on Simpson’s heels was another standout freshman, Roxxi Ottum, who crossed the finish line with a commendable time of 20:15.7. Ottum’s tenacity and skill contributed significantly to the team’s overall success.

The FGC Women’s Cross Country Team’s collective effort and individual achievements propelled them to their historic 10th-place finish, leaving an indelible mark on the program’s legacy. The team’s performance at nationals reflects the talent and potential within the roster, providing a glimpse into a promising future for the Timberwolves.

Also on Saturday, FGC Men’s Cross Country competed in their first national championship since the team’s reestablishment this year. The Wolves finished 29th overall in the Men’s 8K with a team score of 821, setting the course for success and continued growth in the 2024 season.

For more information on FGC Cross County and FGC Athletics, visit www.fgcwolves.com.

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Full NJCAA National Championship Results: https://live.xpresstiming.com/meets/28789