The Excitement Builds for the 2025 NCAA DIII Cross Country Championships
Lynchburg’s Milestone Journey
The University of Lynchburg’s men’s cross country team is gearing up for a significant milestone: their fifth consecutive appearance at the NCAA DIII Cross Country Championships. Set to unfold at the scenic Roger Milliken Cross Country Course in Spartanburg, S.C., the anticipation in Lynchburg is palpable as they prepare for race day on Saturday, November 22.
Race Schedule and Live Updates
The competition will kick off at 10:00 a.m. with the men’s race, followed closely by the women’s event at 11:00 a.m. Fans and supporters can track the live results through Leone Timing, ensuring that everyone stays updated on the team’s performance.
Recent Performance and Rankings
Entering the NCAA South Region Championships ranked 23rd nationally, the Hornets showcased their strength by securing second place behind Washington & Lee. Every member of the Lynchburg roster, a total of seven athletes, finished within the top 23 of the men’s 8k, earning coveted all-region accolades. This impressive performance serves as a testament to their dedication and teamwork as they step onto a national stage.
A Look Back at Last Year
Reflecting on their 2024 journey, Lynchburg’s team displayed unwavering determination by finishing 12th overall in Terre Haute, Ind., with a total of 300 points. Chasen Hunt emerged as a standout, clocking an All-American time of 24:24.3 for a remarkable 14th place finish. This past experience sets the tone for their aspirations this year.
A Warm Welcome to South Carolina
2025 marks a historic moment for Lynchburg, as this is their first trip south for the NCAA Championships in over two decades. Although South Carolina has never hosted an NCAA Cross Country Championship, it has played host to significant athletic events, including the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Myrtle Beach.
Weather Conditions
Competitors will welcome relatively pleasant weather on race day, with morning temperatures at 68 degrees and partly cloudy skies. This is an ideal scenario for athletes, as they can focus fully on their performance without the hindrance of extreme weather conditions.
Course Features
Runners will tackle a unique course featuring two loops of varying lengths. Although the setup initially presents a narrow start, the grass surface and flat layout create a favorable environment for swift racing. However, the course concludes with a steady ascent, challenging athletes as they approach the finish line.
Broadcast Coverage
For those unable to attend in person, a free live stream will be accessible via NCAA.com starting at 10:00 a.m. This enables fans and community members to cheer on the Hornets from afar.
Keys Players to Watch
Throughout the postseason, Alex Jordan has been a bright spot for the Hornets, consistently leading the pack. After earning the title of ODAC Rookie of the Year, the sophomore collected the ODAC Runner of the Year award by securing a remarkable 24:15.2 at the championships, a significant 17-second victory over the competition.
Also returning to the NCAA stage is Johnathan Cobb, who missed the 2024 season due to injury. He is poised to make a comeback, finishing ninth at the regional meet with a personal-best time of 24:43.4, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Lynchburg’s lineup is bolstered by a host of talented sophomores, including Alex Paciello, Jack Weddle, and Cameron Sidebotham, each demonstrating impressive consistency and growth. Paciello, in particular, shone at the Connecticut College Invite, achieving a personal best of 24:55.0.
Additional Team Members
Randy White and Aidan Riggle round out Lynchburg’s projected top seven. Both athletes have demonstrated remarkable improvement throughout the season, with White achieving top-15 finishes and Riggle clocking a notable 25:12.4 at the regional championships.
Coaching Leadership
At the helm is Coach Sam Llaneza, embarking on his first NCAA Championships. With an impressive legacy as an athlete with 10 All-American honors, Llaneza has instilled a culture of success within the team. His first year in this coaching role has already featured second-place finishes at both the ODAC and NCAA South Region Championships.
“I think we can all agree that we’re incredibly grateful for this opportunity,” Llaneza remarked. His intent to foster connections among young athletes resonates deeply as they prepare for this prestigious event.
Connecting with the Community
The enthusiasm from the Lynchburg community is palpable as the team makes strides on a national platform. To stay updated with the latest news and insights about the Hornets, fans are encouraged to visit LynchburgSports.com and follow Lynchburg athletics across social media platforms.
Stay Engaged
As anticipation builds for the upcoming Championships, it’s a thrilling time for the Hornets and their supporters. To keep up with the latest developments, enthusiasts can sign up for email updates, like the Lynchburg Sports Facebook page, and follow their journey on Instagram, Threads, and X.
