HOPKINTON NH. – The Merrimack women's cross country team competed in the New England Championships where they finished 7^th overall in a field of 21 teams.

How it Happened
Graduate Ava Mahoney paved the way for the Warriors, earning All New England Honors with her top 10 finish. Mahoney captured 7^th place in a field of over 200 athletes with her 5k time of 17:58.15. Junior Maci Chapman was next to cross the line for the Warriors navigating the 5k course in 18:54.17, good for 38^th place. Olivia Beaudet also had a strong performance, racing 19:12.55 to secure 52^nd place. Not far behind was sophomore Kristina Ponzio who secured a 60^th place finish with her time of 19:16.06. Rounding out the Warriors top five was Olivia Guckian who crossed the line in 19:28.18 to take 72^nd place. Marianna Collins and Avaline Fihlman also posted sub-20 5k times, racing 19:32.16 and 19:34.80 to capture 77^th and 80^th place.

The Warriors raced the 5,000 meter course at Hopkinton Fair Grounds against 21 teams including top competitors: New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Providence. Merrimack also had the opportunity to race against conference foes Sacred Heart and Quinnipiac.

Coaching Spotlight
 "The women had a much better team performance compared to last week, led by Ava Mahoney earning All New England Honors. Several of the girls really stepped up and had significant PR's, which is always good to see. Like the men, this will be a critical week of training as we prepare to enter the championship part of our season."


The Basics
Team Results: 7/21
Top Finisher: Ava Mahoney
Location: Hopkinton, NH.  | Hopkinton Fair Grounds

Up Next:

The Warriors will compete in the Central Connecticut State Mini Meet Friday October 25. The women's varsity race will kick off at 3:30 PM. Followed by the men at 4:00 PM.

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