SACRAMENTO, Calif. --- Mississippi College is set to compete at the 2024 NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships in Sacramento, California, with eight athletes representing the school at the prestigious national event. The Arcade Creek Cross Country Course will serve as the venue for this year's championship races, where the MC men's and women's teams are eager to take on the best in D2 cross country.
Race times are scheduled as follows:
- Men's race: 12:00Â p.m. CT (10:00Â a.m. PT)
- Women's race: 1:15 p.m. CT (11:15Â a.m. PT)
Fans can watch the races live via NCAA.com, where both the men's and women's events will be streamed.
Men's Team to Watch:
For the men, this marks the fourth consecutive year they've qualified for nationals, continuing a tradition of excellence in the program. The squad has had a remarkable season, with several standout performances at the NCAA South Regional Championships. At regionals, Christian Balcer (6th), Braedon Methvin (12th), and Cooper Parmer (11th) each earned All-Region honors after placing in the top 20. In addition to those three, Brock Kelly, Preston Speed, Carson Smith, and Wyatt Whipp will also represent the program at nationals.
Head Coach Joe Snyder praised the team's determination and leadership:
"This is the fourth consecutive year that our men's cross country team has qualified for the National Championships, a testament to the hard-working, high-character athletes on our team and the leadership that they continually provide. This is also the fourth consecutive year that our women's team has had representation at the National Championships. Coach Webber has done a tremendous job leading this group. More than their athletic achievement, he has placed a large emphasis on the development of the whole athlete, pursuing excellence in all areas of life. We are excited to compete against the best D2 has to offer and represent Mississippi College on the national stage!"
Men's Runners at Nationals:
Women's Team Strong at Nationals:
On the women's side, Taylor Benoit is the lone representative for Mississippi College at nationals, qualifying after a stellar performance at the regional championships. Benoit has had an outstanding season, and the team is eager to see her compete at the highest level. The women's team, with a mix of experience and youthful energy, is looking forward to a strong showing in Sacramento.
Coach Snyder also noted the growth of the women's program:
"Taylor has been a standout performer all year, and we're thrilled for her to have the opportunity to compete at nationals. Our women's program is continuing to grow, and we're excited to see what the future holds as we build on the success of our student-athletes."
Women's Runner at Nationals:
How to Watch:
Fans can watch the 2024 NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships live on NCAA.com, where both the men's and women's races will be streamed.
With a talented group of athletes poised to represent Mississippi College at the national meet, the 2024 NCAA D2 Cross Country Championships are set to be a thrilling day for MC fans. The men's team is looking to build on their past successes, while Benoit will look to make an impact on the national stage.
For more updates and to cheer on the MC athletes, follow Mississippi College Cross Country on social media or visit NCAA.com for live coverage.
