The Midwestern State cross country team claimed its fourth straight Lone Star Conference championship Saturday morning at Red Arroyo Parkin San Angelo, Texas.
The Mustangs finished with a score of 43 and an average of 22:32:40 among 16 runners to dominate West Texas A&M, Angelo State University, Abilene Christian University and Eastern New Mexico.
MSU Senior Brissia Montalvo was the top individual finisher in the competition with a running time of 21:40.00.
Head Cross Country Coach Koby Styles lauded Montalvo’s effort in helping the Mustangs claim a title.
“One of her goals was to win the conference championship and she did it,” he said. “She worked very hard and it paid off.”
Ashley Flores followed Montalvo for MSU with a sixth overall position. The sophomore runner finished with a time of 22:26.00. Janel Campbell (22:30.00), who was close to Flores, settled for an overall position of eighth.
MSU had three consistent freshmen who help the team with positive results. Michelle Krezonoski (22:41.00), Kim Krezonoski (23:25:00) and Sara Cuba (23:46.00) finished 12th, 16th and 23rd respectively.
Kim Krezonoski was satisfied with her performance as well as the team’s hard work.
“I think I did as good as I could that day. I gave it everything,” she said. “I am ready to compete in the regionals.”
According to Styles, the Mustangs came out impressive even after hectic practice sessions.
“Last week was rough and the runners were not feeling great going into the meet Saturday,” Styles said. “The freshmen are one of the reasons we are who we are; they are always there to step up.”
Juniors Heather Owens (24:04.00), Melody Caldwell (24:10.00) and Senior Lindsey Pate (25:16.00) rounded up the 43 points for Midwestern State. The runners finished 31st, 32nd and 53rd correspondingly.
“We were the favorite going into the meet. Other teams wanted to take the title as well,” Styles said. “But we weren’t going to have any of that.”
Cuba was thrilled with the victory especially being a freshman.
“I came up to such a good team,” she said. “I am really nervous about regionals but I can’t wait.”
The Mustangs will host NCAA Division II South Central Region Championships on Nov. 5th at the former Hawk Ridge Course.
