The Montana State cross country teams recently competed at the Gans Creek Classic in Columbia, Missouri, as they prepare for this season’s challenges. This was their second meet of the year, with another scheduled in a few weeks.
Facing strong competition, the Bobcats finished 31st in both the men’s and women’s races. In the women’s 6k, they scored 928 points, while in the men’s 8k, they tallied 752 points. The top women’s team was No. 12 Florida, while the men’s title went to No. 1 Iowa State.
Dale Kennedy, the Director of Track and Field and Cross Country, highlighted the value of competing against such elite teams. He noted that the experience would serve them well in future races. Lyle Weese, who coaches the teams, praised runners Madi Siana and Owen Smith for their impressive performances. Siana demonstrated remarkable determination, moving up 17 spots in the last stretch of her race.
Madi Siana was the top finisher for the women, completing the race in 21:14.7. Her teammate, Hannah Perrin, followed closely, finishing in 22:06.0, while Claire Rutherford earned her place with a time of 22:09.3 in her first collegiate race. The rest of the team, including Hailey Watkins and Annie Kaul, also finished strong.
On the men’s side, Owen Smith led with a time of 23:36.8, followed by Sam Ells at 24:09.6. Ryan Harrington and Harvey Cramb finished close together, while freshman AJ Ringert rounded out the scoring for the men.
Overall, the Bobcats gained valuable experience against a tough field. Their next test will be the Pre-National Invitational, where they’ll have another chance to prove themselves.
This season serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of college athletics. As of 2023, participation in NCAA cross country has increased by over 10% in the last decade, reflecting growing interest in the sport. Engaging in these high-level competitions not only sharpens skills but also prepares athletes for future challenges. To see full results from the meet, check out PrimeTime Timing.
For updates on the Montana State Bobcats, find them on social media platforms. They are sharing their journey and experiences, connecting with fans and followers eager to support the team.
