Results 

Columbia, MO – The No. 7 UC women's cross country team made history again on Friday, placing sixth at the 2024 NAIA National Championships, the best team finish in program history. The Patriots also had three All-American finishers for the first time in program history.

"To be the best we have ever been able to produce as a women's program and to have three All-American finishers, the most in a single season in program history, really means a lot and just goes to show how talented of a group we have and I'm glad they are getting the recognition they deserve." said Head Coach Bradley Sowder.

Alina Boshchuk led the way for the Pats and finished 19th overall with a time of 21:26.2 in the women's 6K. The sophomore's efforts led her to earning the ninth fastest time in program history. Boshchuk hovered around the top ten early on in the race, rising as high as 12th at the 3K split. The Ukraine native collects her second consecutive All-American medal after a ninth place finish last year.

Elke Wijkmans was the next finisher for UC and placed 21st with a time of 21:28.6. The senior had a strong season for the Pats, garnering both MSC and All-American honors.

The next Patriot finisher to cross the finish line was Tarikua Majocchi, who clocked a 21:47.3 to place 38th and secure the All-American spot. The Mid-South Conference Freshman of the Year made jumps at every split in the race. Majocchi was in 46th place at the 3K split but moved up eight spots in the final 3K to earn All-American honors.

Sophomores Jessica Chappell and Maelyn Barker crossed the finish line next to round out the top five scorers for UC. Chappell paced a time of 22.17.6 to place 59th while Barker ran a 22.24.2 to finish 67th.

The final two racers for the Patriots on Friday were Elizabeth Lucason and Elisa Helferich. Lucason finished the race with a time 22:38.9 while Helferich paced a 23.13.2.

The Master's (Calif.) took the championship with a score of 92 points while Taylor (Ind.) and Saint Mary (Kan.) followed with 93 and 125 points to round out the top three.

This marks the end to another stellar season for the Patriots women's cross country team. In addition to the showing at Nationals, UC also garnered their fifth consecutive MSC title, eight All-Conference honorees, and MSC Runner, Freshman, and Assistant Coach of the Year awards.

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