by Benny Benton
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Barton College women's cross country team recorded a 20th place finish out of 25 programs at the Royals Cross Country Challenge on Friday at McAlpine Creek Park.
Senior Sharon Kiptoo paced the Lady Bulldogs with a time of 18:54 on the 5K course, finishing 40th in a field of 221 runners, the largest of the season. The Eldoret, Kenya, resident ranked second among runners representing Conference Carolinas programs.
Sophomore Meghan Araldi posted a personal record 5K time of 20:29 in the event while crossing the line in 112th position. Rounding out Barton's lineup were senior Judith Melly (189th, 23:18), freshman Brooke Lonergan (199th, 24:15) sophomore Courtney Ricks (210th, 26:46) and freshman Andrea Mills (215th, 28:08).
North Greenville University was the top Conference Carolinas program in the race, placing 15th.
There was no team score for Barton in the men's 8K race, as the Bulldogs were left with just four runners after senior Qasim Ray could not complete the race due to injury.
Alex Kelly was BC's top finisher, placing 115th in a field of 191 competitors. Fellow freshman Evan Lee was not far behind, running 122nd with a time of 28 seconds flat.
A third Barton freshman, Greg Gibbs, recorded a time of 29:01 in finishing 141st. Redshirt sophomore Leslie Jones added an effort of 31:28 while placing 169th.
The race was the final tune-up for Barton before the Bulldogs compete in the Conference Carolinas Championships on October 20.
