Men's Cross Country | 11.04.2021

LEWISTON, Idaho – Both the men and women's cross country teams are Klamath Falls, Ore., bound to join their conference opponents in a battle for a pair of Cascade Conference team titles. The Warriors have had some time off from racing since their last meet at home in the Lewiston Orchards on Oct. 16, so LC State is hungry to compete.
 
"Excited about conference and traveling to Klamath Falls," Head Coach Mike Collins said. "Will feel a little like the Frontier as we will be racing at altitude, but this time we won't be the only team not used to it. Big challenges for both teams."
 
THE MEN
Recently named NAIA National Runner of the Week and Cascade Conference Runner of the Week, Cole Olsen leads the No. 12 men's team heading into conference. The men climbed two spots in the latest NAIA poll, with the help of their strong performance on their home course at the Inland Empire Championships that wrapped up the regular season. Olsen paved the way with a fifth-place overall finish, which was the top NAIA finish. Clayton VanDyke and Chase Barrow have both held strong spots this season. At their home meet, VanDyke finished 15th and Barrow crossed the line at 24th. Just two spots behind Barrow was freshman Brycen Kempton, who has put together a strong collegiate debut season. Senior Connor Turpin rounded out the top five Warriors, finishing in 50th. As a team, the men finished third behind Division I opponents Gonzaga and Idaho and look to build off this momentum in Oregon.
 
"Men are the No. 2 seed in conference and will have to run well to try to repeat as conference champions," Collins said.  "Good group of mature runners that has been led by Cole all year, so I know they will give it their best."
 
THE WOMEN
At the Inland Empire Championships, fifth-year senior Emily Adams led the Warriors as their top finisher in 18th. Adams added much experience and depth as a leader for the team this season. Sophomore Geraldin Correa was next in 43rd and has been a key contributor for the Warriors this season, along with seniors, Maja Plaznik, Rylee Brown, and Callie Johnson. Junior Brooklyn Shell and sophomore Abigail Gorton have also been scorers for the Warriors this season and have added to the top five mix.
 
"Women are going to have to run well if they want to compete at nationals," Collins stated. "The raters have not given us much respect this year and I believe that we will have to finish in at least third to have a shot at nationals. With the two top-10 teams in the conference of C of I and SOU—not rated there, but definitely a top 10—we have our work cut out for us."
 
LC State teams will be fighting for spots to secure their advancement to the NAIA National Championships, set to take place Nov. 19 in Vancouver, Wash. on the grounds of the Historic Fort Vancouver Park. The Cascade Conference Champion for both men and women's teams will receive an automatic bid to nationals, leaving others to wait for an at-large bid. 
 
"Emotions are very positive right now and I like our attitude as we get ready to compete," said Collins.
 
THE DETAILS
The races will take place at Running Y Ranch Golf Course in Klamath Falls, Ore. on Friday. The men's race will begin at 11 a.m., with the women following at noon. The awards ceremony will follow shortly after. Live timing can be found HERE.
 
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