Nelson runs to third NSAA Cross Country crown

VALLEY CITY, N.D. -- Madison Nelson, who was runner-up a year ago for the Bruins, returned to the top spot in NSAA cross country with her victory today at the league championship in Valley City, N.D. Nelson also captured the title in 2021 and 2022 and has gone on to earn All-American honors in the past two NAIA championships.

Nelson bolted to an early lead and ran unchallenged to a 53-second win in 23:40.2. Today's six-kilometer course was run over the slightly rolling grounds of Valley City's Town and Country Golf Course under sunny skies and ideal running conditions.

Alicia Rivera Camargo was the second Bruin finisher today, running 26:15.0 for 22nd in the 33-runner field. The final three Bruins raced for the first time this season and helped the Bruins to a fifth-place finish. Alyssa Brandes was 30th in 33:46.5, with Aaricia Noel-Traissac 31st running 33:49.8. An injured Kimberly Kisoryo courageously completed the course in 44:23.4 for 33rd place.

Assistant Coach Matt Musiel: "We're proud of the effort from our women today. The goal was to go out and give it their best effort, and that's what I saw. Madison continued doing what she has done for four years and it's really quite amazing. I think she's got a great shot at being a three-time All-American at Nationals."

Nelson was also recognized as the team's Champion of Character. Head Coach Craig Christians commented that she is a "once in a lifetime" runner for the Bruin program and that her contribution has been "beyond measure."

Nelson, along with the men's team, will compete on Friday, November 22, at the NAIA National Championship meet in Columbia, Mo.