Six Lake-Sumter State College cross country runners earned national recognition last weekend as they completed their season at the NJCAA National Championships in Iowa.
Alexander Croy, Nicholas Atkinson, William Troupe, Adolfo Saucedo Flores and Ernesto Velasquez all qualified for Nationals on the men’s team, and Kyja Williams on the women’s team.
“These student-athletes have been phenomenal all season long,” said Coach Cristy Snellgroves. “They have put both of our programs on the map in just two short years of existence. I am so proud of all of their accomplishments, both on the course and in the classroom. I cannot thank them enough for such a great season under such difficult circumstances.”
After placing second in the Region 8 meet and earning All-State recognition, Williams ran 20:09.55 to finish 17th at Nationals in the pool of over 115 runners. Williams was selected as an NJCAA Coaches Association All-America runner after the event.
Croy was the top finisher for the Lakehawks men’s team, coming in 13th with a time of 26:36.91. His top-15 finish earned him NJCAA All-America status.
Atkinson was next from LSSC to cross the line 36th among the 112 competitors. Flores and Troupe ran through the finish line back-to-back, placing 39th and 40th respectively, followed by Velasquez to complete the team.
With five runners competing and four finishing in the top 40, LSSC finished seventh at Nationals as a team.
“On behalf of LSSC, I want to congratulate each of these runners and Head Coach Snellgroves on their accomplishments this season,” said LSSC President Dr. Stan Sidor, who flew to Iowa to surprise the runners at the competition. “Each of these students has left a lasting legacy as Lakehawks and I know that they have bright futures ahead of them.”
