The BUF men's and women's cross country team competed Friday, September 18, at the inaugural BUF XC Invitational in Panama City, marking the university's first-ever home cross-country meet.

The Lady Eagles had a strong showing, with all three runners improving their times and recording new personal records (PRs) on the 5K course. Makayla Price led the women with a time of 26:48, followed by Danika Rogers with a time of 27:45 and Stefanie Donahey with a time of 30:15.

 

On the men's side, the Eagles continued to soar. Gabe Pearson led BUF with a time of 30:43, improving from his previous performance at the HOKA Nights of Thunder XC Run Fest. Barrett Jones also improved his time, finishing in 33:27 and qualifying for the NCCAA DII Cross Country National Championship.

Avery Price finished with a time of 35:25 in his first collegiate 8K race. He is close to qualifying for nationals, with two meets remaining this season. Brayden Flores also completed his first collegiate 8K race, finishing with a time of 43:07.

The BUF cross country team continues to excel as the season progresses. Coach Wanamaker and Coach Strickland are extremely proud of the team's hard work and improvement and look forward to seeing what the Eagles accomplish in the remaining meets.

The Eagles will return to the course Friday, October 2, at a meet hosted by Gulf Coast State College at the same park in Panama City.