Looking ahead: Tigers take 16th at Penn State Nationals
By: Annette Arceneaux, Contributing Writer
Towson placed 16th out of 19 teams Friday in the Women’s 6k event at the Penn State Nationals, earning three wins in the competition between three nationally ranked teams.
“These were great teams and probably the best competition we’ve ever faced in cross country head-to-head,” Head Coach Mike Jackson said.
The Tigers were led by junior Allison Marella, who finished 79th out of 234 with a time of 21:50.
Senior Megan Knobloch placed 86th with a time of 21:56, while sophomore Hannah Walter placed 97th at 22:09.
Following the top three Tiger finishers was junior Colleen Cook, who placed 111th with a time of 22:30.
Sophomore Abby Gauthier placed in 114th with a time of 22:37, making her the first of three Tigers to score 6k personal bests.
“We’re very excited about Abby stepping up,” Jackson said. “We’re really excited about how she’s progressed and continues to fight throughout the year.”
Freshman Erica Israel followed only a second behind Gauthier with a personal best of 22:38. Junior Emily Johnson rounded out the event for the Tigers, placing 123rd with a time of 22:56.
“If you stay healthy, you have a chance to get out and compete,” Jackson said.
Freshman Ally Coghlan recorded a personal best with a time of 23:12. Sophomore Shelby Bobbie followed with a time of 23:34, while sophomore Megan Lindstrom finished with a time of 24:03.
Junior Kara Mueser placed in 221st at 24:55. Freshman Kaylee Ryan came in 223rd at 25:34, and Jenna Donohue came in 224th with a time of 25:52.
Hosted by Penn State, the competition marked Towson’s last regular meet of the season. Towson will compete in the CAA (Colonial Athletic Association) Championships Oct. 29 at the University of Delaware.