BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – In a testament to their outstanding performances this season, Mississippi College's Jan Lukas Becker and Jazmin Russell have been honored as the Gulf South Conference (GSC) Men's and Women's Runners of the Week. These accolades highlight the exceptional achievements and athletic prowess displayed by both runners in their recent performances at the 2023 Watson College Cross Country Classic at Mississippi College's own Choctaw Trails. 

This recognition marks the second GSC Runner of the Week honor for Becker this year, closely following his prestigious award as the USTFCCCA National Athlete of the Week. Becker's recent triumphs, including a groundbreaking performance at the 2023 Watson College Cross Country Classic, continue to solidify his standing as an elite athlete in collegiate cross country.

Russell clinched her first GSC Runner of the Week title this season, propelled by a stellar run at the Watson College Classic. Her record-setting pace led to the fastest 6K time in the conference this year, leading the Lady Choctaws to a 6K team average of 22:04 in the process. 

With these honors bolstering their season, the focus for Becker, Russell, and the Choctaws is now on the forthcoming challenge: the GSC Cross Country Championships. The team is set to compete on Saturday, October 21, in Huntsville, Alabama, where they will strive to continue their momentum.