RESULTS

COLFAX, Wisc. - The Bethel Royals women's cross country team took 10th place with 298 team points. The Royals had 4 lifetime best performances over the 6k distance and 5 runners had season best times. "Our women ran an incredibly brave race," said Head Coach Joe Stephens, as the Royals got out hard in the first half of the race. "The character and guts were there today, especially from Grace (Cole)." 

Coach Stephens had more praise for Cole as she led the way for Bethel. "This was absolutely the best effort I have seen from a female athlete in my 17 years of coaching. The commitment, tenacity, and pain tolerance was unbelievable to witness. I'm so proud of Grace, she has been amazing for us as a leader."

Senior Captain Grace Cole was the first Royal to cross the finish line. Cole took 38th place with her time of 23:06, a lifetime best and the 13th best performance in program history. Raina Moorjani ran a terrific race to move herself into 49th place with a time of 23:19, just 2 seconds away from her season best. Freshman Evie Hage took 52nd place with her time of 23:24, the 18th fastest in program history. Erika Swanson took 57th place by running 23:32, only 10 seconds off her lifetime best. Senior Malakai Holloway went out hard and held on for a season best of 24:26, which placed her 102nd.

"Our gals sold out for the goal of making it to nationals this year," said Stephens. "I'm proud of the effort I saw this fall." The Royals conclude their cross country season and look forward to a well deserved rest before firing up for the indoor track and field season that opens competition on Saturday, January 22nd at Macalester.