SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Merrimack women's cross country team kicked off their 2024 campaign Saturday morning at Bryant University for the Shawn Nassaney Invitational. The Warriors placed fourth out of nine teams in the 5k race.

Senior Ava Mahoney led the pack for the Warriors, finishing with a time of 19:05.9 to claim 11th place. Not far behind was senior Olivia Beaudet who navigated the course in 19:34.9 earning a 19th place finish. Rounding out the Warriors top three was sophomore Maci Chapman who crossed the line in 19:35.1 good for 20th place.

Freshman Avaline Fihlman earned points for the Warriors running a solid time of 19:51.2 for 24 th place. Senior Madison Cote posted a 5k time of 19:53.1 earning 26th place. Freshman Olivia Guckian was right on her heels taking 27 th place with a time of 19:53.5. Junior Marianna Collins rounded out the team finishing 32nd with a time of 20:08.9.

This meet was against nine other opponents including, Dartmouth, Bryant, Stonehill, Holy Cross, So. Conn. St., Wheaton, and Johnson & Wales.

Coaching Spotlight

"Overall, we liked what we saw from our women so early in the season. Ava [Mahoney], our top runner, treated the race as a workout. Looking ahead, our 1 - 7 pack has to remain close and continue to improve. If that takes place, we'll have a successful season."

The Basics
Team Results: 4/9
Top Finisher: Ava Mahoney
Location: Smithfield, R.I.  | Bryant University campus

Up Next:
Merrimack will travel to Montgomery, NY on September 14 th for the Jasper Falls Invitational.

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