by Lana Douglas
Staff Writer
The Bryan Lion ladies’ cross country team went to the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) Cross Country National Championships for the first time Nov. 21 in Vancouver, Wash.
Sophomore Ericka Simpson finished 20:59 in 241st place, freshman Liz Olsen finished 21:09 in 248th place and sophomore Alyssia Lindsay finished 21:58 in 287th place.
“I don’t know if it is so much about winning or losing, it’s more about just taking chances and using all the opportunities you have and doing your best,” said Olsen before the race.
Olsen started running track in 7th grade and competed in many races. This is Olsen’s first time at nationals for cross country.
According to Head Coach Rodney Stoker, it can be overwhelming when there are 300 other girls running, the crowd is yelling, it is raining and it is 40 degrees outside.
“I thought they handled it did pretty well,” said Stoker.
Although the women did not place high, it was a good experience and hopefully the first of many national competitions.
“It was a really cool opportunity and a good learning experience,” said Olsen.