Chandler, AZ – The Western New Mexico University's Cross Country team competed in their first spring event of the 2021 season, competing in the Arizona Christian University Firestorm Invitational, held at Valley Christian High School.
The Lady Mustangs competed in two events. Sophia Rodriquez was the sole Mustang to run in the 800m, taking the gold medal with a time of 2:36.38. Britney Lovato (Rio Rancho, NM/Cleveland High School) and Margaret Orr competed in the 5000m. Lovato had the best finish with a time of 19:08.52. Orr took the bronze with 22:18.36.
The men competed in the 5000m as well. Michael Anzures (Seboyeta, NM/Grants HS) nabbed the gold medal finishing with a time of 15:30.86. Joshua Lara (Albuquerque, NM/Atrisco Heritage Academy HS) wasn't too far behind in second, finishing 16:01.22. With the bronze, Dorian Carrasco (Clint, TX/Clint) was able to run as an undeclared runner, 12 seconds behind Lara (16:13.51).
Cody Hepker (Albuquerque, NM/Sandia HS) ran 16:27.31, good enough for 4th place. David Ceballos (El Paso, TX/San Elizario HS) crossed the finish line shortly after 16:45.48, placing him in 5th. Erik Arambula placed in 6th crossed the line at 17:50.30.
The Mustangs are hopeful to compete again sometime in the spring.
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 Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (Twitter & Instagram).
