SALEM, VA (October 28, 2021) – The Claflin University women’s cross-country teams had a great performance when it mattered the most with some great performances at the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Cross Country Championships. The team showed up in a major way to earn fifth place at the meet.
“The women’s team showed up today. Everyone ran well,” said Claflin university cross country head coach Garon Jackson after the meet. “Madison finished sixth. I’m really proud of her. She definitely put in the work. Her work ethic is her strength.”
The Lady Panthers set the pace for the day with a great showing in the women’s 5K run. The team totaled 132 points in the event. Like much of the season, it was freshman Madison McDonald that led the way for the Lady Panthers. She finished sixth overall in the meet with a 21:13.2. The time marked a personal record for her by a full 10 seconds. With the effort, she earns Senior Sky Buie-Cox added a 24th place finish when she ran a 22:21.1 while fellow senior Esther Chukwunwike added a 26th place finish with a 22:38.4. The time was also a season-best performance for her as well.
With the conference cross country championships done, the team completes the 2021 cross country season. From here, the Lady Panthers will turn their focus to the indoor track & field season with the goal of improving each year.