Lakehawk Cross Country Shines at Holloway Park Collegiate Opener

September 10, 2024

LAKELAND, Fla. (Cross Country) – The Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) men's and women's cross country teams competed in the Holloway Park Collegiate Opener hosted by Florida Southern over the weekend. As one of just two National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) teams racing, the Lakehawks embraced the challenge against tough competition.

The women's race began at 7:45 a.m. just after sunrise. The team battled a 4.2-Meter (4.2K) course with hills and unavoidable mud throughout.

Freshmen Alexis Hume and Oksanna Smith continue to lead the team on the course crossing the finish line at one-hundredth of a second apart.

"These two are getting stronger with every race and have so much more potential," said Coach Snellgroves. "I cannot wait to see what they accomplish as the season progresses."

The men's race began shortly after the conclusion of the women's race at 8:15 a.m. The athletes tackled a challenging 6,000-Meter (6K) course.

Freshman Spencer Palmer led the Lakehawk charge, running a similar time to last week's race despite more difficult terrain.

"Spencer continues to impress, but what is even more exciting is the depth of talent we have on the men's team."

"The next eight are working together like a well-oiled machine, and they are only going to get stronger. I could not be more thrilled to see how they develop in the weeks to come," said Coach Snellgroves.

Teams will take the next two weeks to train for their next race in Daytona Beach, Fla. hosted by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on Saturday, Sept. 21.

Final Results – Men

Spencer Palmer – 20:45.1

Dylan Royal – 22:36.9

Thatcher Clarke – 22:40.6

Jovanni Matos – 22:48.1

Kamarius Worthen – 22:55.1

Bryce Blalock – 22:56.9

Cohen Hartley – 23:07.9

Anthoney Allen – 23:08.4

Joaquin Francis – 23:18.5

Connor Parrish – 24:1.5

Luca Watson – 24:25.4