Graceland Women's Cross Country Competes at HAAC Championship

Cedar Rapids, Iowa — The Graceland University women's cross country team concluded its 2024 season at the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) Championship meet, hosted by Mount Mercy University at the Seminole Valley Cross Country Course. On November 9, under challenging weather conditions marked by cloud cover, a steady ESE wind, and high humidity, the Yellowjackets delivered a determined performance in the competitive 6-kilometer race.

Graceland placed eighth overall, scoring 212 points with an average time of 25:41 and a spread of 2:02.3. Leading the team was senior standout Jordyn Fischer, who crossed the line in 24:37.5, placing 31st. Fischer's consistent pace of 6:36.1 per mile demonstrated her commitment throughout the race, marking a strong finish to her collegiate running career.

Close behind, sophomore Alissa Carusso secured 36th place with a time of 25:07.0, maintaining a steady mile pace of 6:44.0. Junior Mickenzie Fisher followed in 40th place, clocking in at 25:29.8, showcasing resilience and team spirit.

Graceland's lineup was further strengthened by performances from Cameron Sharp (45th, 26:00.1), Ella Gerlach (50th, 26:20.5), and Cassandra Nelson (51st, 26:23.7), who each displayed grit and determination. Thaya Echavarria (52nd, 26:27.4) and Caitlin Grover (53rd, 26:39.8) rounded out the scoring team, pushing through the final meters to secure valuable points for the Yellowjackets. Freshman Sierra Davenport also competed, finishing in 71st with a time of 27:09.5, highlighting the team's depth and potential for future seasons.

Reflecting on the season, Head Coach Tom Shore expressed optimism despite the meet's challenges. "The championship today represents not just the culmination of our season but the foundation for the future," Shore noted. "This group has laid the groundwork for what's to come. Their commitment and development throughout this season give me confidence that we are on the path to elevating Graceland cross country to new heights next year."

Shore added, "I'm incredibly proud of our athletes for the effort they put into today's race and the season as a whole. Competing at this level demands resilience, and each runner showed that grit today. The lessons learned here will carry us forward as we aim to build on this season's progress."

Graceland's commitment to training and team cohesion was evident throughout the season, culminating in a respectable team finish amid a strong field of conference competitors. The Yellowjackets' collective focus on strategic pacing and finishing strong set the tone for future success in upcoming seasons.

As the Yellowjackets conclude their 2024 campaign, they take with them not only the race-day experiences but the endurance and camaraderie forged throughout their training. "This year, we saw growth, not just in times and finishes but in how this team came together and pushed one another," Shore said. "I'm excited to see where we go from here."

For more information on the Graceland University women's cross country team and all Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.