A new season rises, while an old record falls. It was a very successful first competition for the Cross Country Cottey Comets, competing at the Southwest Baptist University Bearcat Invite in Bolivar, MO. The Comets took on over 100 runners from 14 schools, finishing in 7th place as a team. The field included multiple NCAA Division II, NAIA, and other schools from around the area.

First across the line for the Comets was Madalenn Fee, finishing in 18:53, which is a new school record. Fee finished 14th overall, highlighting just how tough the field was in the race. Avery Morris was the next Comet to cross the line, finishing in 21:03 and garnering 39th place. Comets Freshman Jessie Mick was the next finisher for the Comets, finishing in 48th during her collegiate debut. Seniors Taylor Rechenmacher and Mikaela Fabey were just behind in 49th and 51st place respectively. 

Many of the Comets made significant improvements over last year's times, a good sign for the season to come. For a full list of results, check out the race data here: https://liveresults.trxctiming.com/meets/SBU_Bearcat_XC_Invite_2024

Next up on the calendar for the Comets is the Southern Stampede on September 20th. It will be held in Joplin, MO, and is hosted by Missouri Southern State University.