MECHANICSVILLE, Va. – The Patriots competed in the A-10 Cross Country Championship hosted by Richmond this morning down at Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville, Va.
 
The women posted their best finish in the A-10 Championship all-time, placing 3rd, while the men placed 4th.
 
Three juniors placed in the top-15 and earned All-Conference honors starting with Annabelle Eastman placing 3rd overall (16.55.4). She was followed by Sarah Francis in 11th (17:32.8) and Kate O'Neill in 15th (17:42.7). Rounding out the scoring was Senior Noelle Saine in 23rd (18:02.5) and Junior Alexis Anderson in 42nd (18:21.3).
 
"The women executed well today and I'm really proud of our finish, which is the highest finish as a team we have ever had," Coach Mihalich said. "This was a huge step for the direction our program has been taking. Although a title eluded us today, the women showed up with a championship mentality, which is going to suit us well for this 'championship portion of the season.' Annabelle and Sarah leading us, as well as Kate getting first team All-Conference, was great for the front pack. Noelle and Alexis dug deep and rounded out our five really well. The front of our league is always so strong, and the women held their own against very good competition. I'll continue digesting the outcome, but I am already looking forward to NCAA Southeast Championships, and I think we can carry the momentum."
 
Two Patriot men received All-Conference honors that included senior Jack Ikenberry in 4th (24:08.1) and sophomore Wesley Bond in 7th (24:11.8). The three other runners that scored were sophomore Josh Walker in 23rd (24:54.9) and juniors James Seal in 25th (24:59.6) and Kai Muniz in 46th (25:25.8).
 
"Although we were pleased individually with a number of the races, it wasn't quite what we wanted," said Coach Gerard. "With two guys in the top 7 places, that was excellent - major props to Jack and Wes! We're still working to establish consistent depth through the rest of our scoring places although, straight up, those were the best cross country races James and Josh have had in Mason uniforms. We'll continue the process through for 2 more weeks to the NCAA regional meet and I'm excited to see the next step."
 
Up next, the Patriots will race at the NCAA Southeast Championships.