Central Achieves Top-10 Finish in NCAA Women’s Cross Country

Central College Women’s Cross Country Team Shines at NCAA Division III Championships

In an exceptional performance, the women’s cross country team of Central College, based in Newville, Pennsylvania, snatched three all-American titles, finishing ninth at the NCAA Division III Championships. This performance is considered their best performance since their inaugural victory in 1981.

All-American Distinctions for Central College Runners

Senior Caroline McMartin and Megan Johnson along with junior Addison Parrott secured the all-America distinction in the championship. McMartin, who clinched the all-America distinction for the second time, ranked 12th in the demanding 6,000-meter course. Johnson was 30th, while Parrott finished 38th, both achieving the all-America distinction in their debut national appearances.

Competitive Team Race at NCAA Division III Championships

In a closely contested team race, No. 2-ranked Carleton College bagged the victory. Central College, entering as No. 15, emerged as the top American Rivers finisher in ninth place. The team’s performance significantly exceeded that of No. 10-ranked University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and outperformed No. 4-ranked Wartburg College.

Exceptional Performances by Central College Athletes

Coach Joe Dunham expressed immense pride in the runners’ performances. Particularly outstanding were the efforts of newcomers Johnson and Parrott. Other notable performances were from Kira Hooper, Leah Bontrager, Hailey Hill, and Lindsey Davidson.

The Contribution of Senior Season Runners

Dunham also acknowledged the contribution of senior season runners, Hill and Davidson, for their vital role in enhancing team competition and performance throughout the year. Their leadership helped Central College advance from seventh place in the conference in 2020 to ninth in Division III this year.