HUNTSVILLE, Ala. -- The Mississippi College Men's and Women's Cross Country teams showcased their mettle at the 2023 Charger Invitational, with both squads delivering stellar performances.

The women's team led the day with an outstanding fourth-place finish among 41 teams. Earning the distinction as the leading team from the Gulf South Conference and the second-highest team from the South Region, the Lady Choctaws put on an exceptional show. Spearheading their charge was Bre Bell, the 2023 Southern Stampede champion, who clocked a swift 17:49 in the 5K, clinching a top-10 finish. Not far behind, Jazmin Russell, the Mississippi College Women's Cross Country 5K and 6K school record-holder, secured a commendable 19th place with a time of 18:03. Josie Whipp, Lauren Wallace, and Taylor Benoit rounded out the scoring five, with Wallace and Benoit securing 5K(XC) lifetime bests. 

The team's achievements did not stop there. For the first time in program history, the Lady Choctaws had seven athletes finish the 5-kilometer race in under 18:40, as well as 14 runners under 20 minutes. A staggering seven lifetime bests in the Women's 5K were also recorded. Cumulatively, the Lady Choctaws set a new 5K average school record of 18:12!

On the men's front, the team placed admirably with two top 25 finishes. Leading the men was Junior Braedon Methvin, who posted a lifetime best 8K time of 24:35, securing the 11th. Cole Benoit's impressive run ensured his position in the top 25, recording a personal best of 24:47 for 20th place overall. Cooper Parmer, Preston Speed, and Wyatt Whipp completed the scoring five lineup, with Parmer and Whipp achieving lifetime bests for the 8K distance. Overall, the men's team clinched ninth place among 45 competing schools.

Fans and supporters won't have to wait long to cheer on the Choctaws again. The teams will return to their home ground at Choctaw Trails for the annual Watson Collegiate Classic on Friday, October 13th. The races commence at 7:30 AM Central Time.