HOBBS, N.M. — The Western New Mexico University men's cross country team turned in a strong performance Friday, September 11, at the NMJC Dr. Steve McCleery Invitational, finishing second overall with 45 points.
The Mustangs were led by Samuel Ketcham (Goodyear, AZ/Canyon View High School), who finished second overall in the men's race with a time of 25:42.21. Ketcham's performance placed him near the front of the field throughout the race and gave WNMU a strong start as the Mustangs competed against a field of 52 runners.
Cameron Shorty (Albuqurque, NM/Atrisco Heritage Academy High School) added another top-10 finish for WNMU, crossing the finish line in eighth place with a time of 26:40.09. Jacob Corral (El Paso, TX/Americas High School) followed closely behind, finishing ninth overall with a time of 26:51.16.
With three Mustangs finishing inside the top 10, WNMU showed strong depth at the front of the field. Ketcham, Shorty and Corral's performances helped the Mustangs earn 45 team points and secure a second-place team finish.
As a team, Western New Mexico recorded a total time of 2:13:54.97, with an average time of approximately 26:47. The Mustangs' strong individual finishes and overall team effort gave WNMU a solid start to the 2026 season.
The men's team will look to build on Friday's second-place finish and continue improving as the Mustangs move into their next scheduled meet of the season.
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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 (X, TikTok & Instagram).
