ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (November 16, 2024) - The Nebraska Wesleyan men's and women's cross country teams capped their 2024 campaign at the NCAA Division III Midwest Regional, held Saturday at Saukie Golf Course in Rock Island, Illinois. The Prairie Wolves faced strong regional competition, with the women earning 17th as a team and the men finishing 14th.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The women's 6k race kicked off the action at 11:00 a.m. Junior Delaney Vacek led the Prairie Wolves, crossing the line in 24:09.3 to place 72nd overall. Close behind was sophomore Kari Mathsen in 90th at 24:28.9, and freshman Tyrah American Horse, who clocked 24:37.3 for 99th. As a team, the women displayed consistent pack running, with all scorers finishing within 37 seconds of each other.
In the men's 8k race at noon, sophomore Thomas Vasquez set the tone, placing 43rd in 25:37.4, followed by classmate Conner Ross at 44th in 25:38.3. Freshman Jack Sinnott (96th) and sophomore Josh Knispel (99th) contributed strong finishes, while freshman Lawson Tjardes rounded out the scoring for the men in 117th. The Prairie Wolves' overall spread of 1:39 highlighted their ability to run as a unit against competitive opposition.
RESULTS
Men's Lineup (Top 5)
Thomas Vasquez - 25:37.4
Conner Ross - 25:38.3
Jack Sinnott - 26:50.5
Josh Knispel - 26:53.2
Lawson Tjardes - 27:17.2
Women's Lineup (Top 5)
Delaney Vacek - 24:09.3
Kari Mathsen - 24:28.9
Tyrah American Horse - 24:37.3
Avary Byers - 24:38.5
Dani Ahrens - 24:46.2
UP NEXT
Nebraska Wesleyan's cross country teams will transition to winter training in preparation for the upcoming indoor track and field season, set to begin in December.
