CLINTON, Miss. — On a beautiful and lively Friday evening at Choctaw Trails, the Mississippi College men's and women's cross country teams kicked off their 2025 season in front of a large, energetic crowd at the newly renovated home course. The debut of a new finish line awning, coupled with the support of students, alumni, and fans from across the region, set the tone for a fun, spirited event. The MC Cheer and Dance teams added to the atmosphere, passing out free popsicles as fans lined the trails to cheer on every stride.
The event welcomed a wide range of programs including William Carey, Loyola-New Orleans, Mobile, Delta State, Jackson State, Alcorn State, Spring Hill, Grambling, Millsaps, Belhaven, Tougaloo, and more.
Men's Race Recap
The men's 5K featured a strong pack from the opening gun, with MC's Carson Smith (15:32.04) pushing the pace alongside Jackson State's Godfrey Kimutai, who ultimately claimed the top spot in 15:28.16. Junior Matthew Singletary (15:35.04) and senior Cooper Parmer (15:40.57) followed closely for the Choctaws, giving MC four finishers inside the top 10.
MC's depth shined with Baxter Friedman, Christian Balcer, and freshman Timothy Rotich all clocking sub-16:00 marks to secure valuable finishes. The tight grouping set an early tone for the season, showcasing both veteran leadership and new talent ready to carry the program forward.
Women's Race Recap
The women's 5K was nothing short of dominant for the Choctaws. Senior Bre Bell (18:29.29) set the tone with the individual victory, and she was followed in order by teammates Taylor Benoit, Lauren Wallace, Kathryn Finch, and freshman Audrey Mayatte to sweep the top five spotsThe Choctaws' pack running strategy paid off as they worked together through the middle miles, eventually pulling away from the field. Their control of the race led to an emphatic team sweep, sending a message that MC's women will be a force throughout the 2025 campaign.
A Festival Atmosphere
As the sun set over Choctaw Trails, the energy from the crowd never waned. Families, classmates, and community supporters filled the course, cheering from the start line all the way through the finish chute. The popsicles, music, and spirit squads made the meet feel as much like a festival as a competition.
It was the perfect opening night for the newly renovated course, giving both MC teams a memorable home debut to start the season.
What's Next
The Choctaws will return to action next weekend as they'll travel on Friday, Sept. 12, at 7:30 a.m. CT to compete in The Southern Showcase hosted by Jacksonville State in Huntsville, Ala. — one of the most competitive events the Choctaws will face all year, featuring several quality Division I programs. Fans, however, won't have to wait long for the next opportunity to see them again in Clinton — the Choctaws will host the Watson Invitational in October at Choctaw Trails, promising another exciting morning of racing and community.
