Sandra Szpott took third at the Region V cross country meet in Hobbs Saturday, finishing with a time of 18:54. Photo courtesy Jason Farmer, Hobbs News-Sun
NMMI Sports Press
Sandra Szpott received her third-place medal from New Mexico Junior College AD Deron Clark. Photo courtesy Jason Farmer, Hobbs News-Sun
HOBBS — Sandra Szpott didn’t come home with a title, but she did finish third at the Region V cross country championships in Hobbs Saturday, with two other Bronco runners finishing in the top 20.
Coach Jan Olesinski wasn’t disappointed the Bronco didn’t get the crown.
“There were two very good girls from Kenya ahead of her and they ran well,” he said. “Sandra had her best race today, she did her best so it’s not bad leading into nationals.”
The runners who beat her were both from El Paso Community College, which won the team title with an impressive 25 points. Shalet Mitei took first while Rose Jebet, finished second.
Szpott crossed the line in 18:54.8, her best time of the season.
Valeriia Uvarova, left, and Katarzyna Rosikon are just behind NMJC runner Cynthia Kipserem early in the race. Photo courtesy Jason Farmer, Hobbs News-Sun
Katarzyna Rosikon finished 11th and Valeria Uvarova 17th, each with good times.
“They all improved their times from the last time they ran over there, so it was great,” Olesinski said.
The year’s final meet for the Broncos is the NJCAA National Championships in El Dorado, Kans., Nov. 12.
NMMI results at the Region V meet
Individuals — 3, Sandra Szpott, 18:54.8; 11, Katarzyna Rosikon, :20:16.0; 17, Valeriia Uvarova, :21:09.03
Complete Region V results
Katarzina Rosikon keeps pace with New Mexico Junior College runner Teresa Jacobs. Photo courtesy Jason Farmer, Hobbs News-Sun
Valeriia Uvarova on the course at the Region V XC meet. Photo courtesy Jason Farmer, Hobbs News-Sun
