RESULTS
CHARLOTTE, N.C.- The Queens University of Charlotte cross country teams had a pair of impressive performances on Friday evening as they hosted the 2022 Royals Challenge at McAlpine Creek Park. The event consisted of four races with the Royals racing in the final two fo the evening.
"I'm proud of both of our teams today," said Queens Director of Track & Field and Cross Country
Jake Krolick. "When we host big meets like this, they are on their own and they do a great job taking care of themselves and making sure they are ready."
The women were consistent as they finished second in the Gold 5K race. The Royals defeated notable programs such as College of Charleston, University of South Carolina, and Davidson.
Letizia Martinelli led all collegiate runners in the race taking third overall with a time of 17:13:1.
Kira Ribbink (18:22:0) and
Sarah Watts (18:26:6) each also secured top 20 finishes in 13th and 20th place, respectively. Watts' time was a personal record.
Hannah Moloney (18:33.2) and
Natalie Bash (18:38.2) completed the scoring for Queens crossing the finish line in 24th and 26th place.
"We saw another great run from Letizia, and some breakthrough races for Kira, Sarah and Hannah," Krolick added. "Natalie continues to be consistent and reliable to move up well through the race."
The men improved from the North Alabama Showcase as the team completed the race in ninth finishing ahead ahead of Charlotte, College of Charleston, and Winthrop. Lance Soleto (25:23.1),
Samuel Balboa (25:30.5) and Tristen Jones (25:31.3) were the first three Queens runners to finish the men's 8k gold race taking 30th, 33rd, and 34th.
Jake Baugher clocked a 60th best 26:05.0 and Tom Heal finished the string in 69th with a time of 26:22.8.
"We have seen big steps forward for Tristan, Sam, and Lance," Krolick continued. "Now we just have to put all the pieces together on the same day. That is the goal at the ASUN Championship meet. We were hurt in the team score when Mitch had a little mishap and had to step off the course, but happy with the rest of the squad."
The Royals will look to race again on Oct. 22 when they travel to Newberry, S.C., for the Newberry Invitational.
Be sure to follow the Royals on Instagram @queens_tf_xc and on Twitter @QueensTrack1 for the latest news and updates surrounding the programs. Additionally, follow Queens Athletics on all social media platforms by searching @QueensAthletics.
