WBC wins team, individual titles at Lyon Invitational

WBC Sports
Shane Stolz, Sports Information Director

WALNUT RIDGE – The women’s cross country team from Williams Baptist College’s 2017 season could not have gotten off to a better start. They return from the Lyon College Invitational with a team championship, as well as an individual championship. The meet took place in Batesville, Ark., on Thursday, Aug. 31.

Hannah Roberts led the way with her first ever individual first place finish. She finished the 5km race in 22:40, becoming the second ever Lady Eagle to earn an individual cross country championship.

“Hannah comes to work every day. She deserves every honor she receives. She keeps a level head and has improved every year. What an honor for her and this team,” head coach Andrew Watson said.

The team dominated the four team invitational, finishing with 19 points total. Central Baptist College (51), Crowley’s Ridge College (61), and Lyon College (96) finished behind WBC.

“It is a special thing to come away with an individual and team championship. I am proud of the way this team competed,” Watson said.

Betsy Ryan followed Roberts to finish the meet in second place. She finished with a time of 23:28. Other scorers for the Lady Eagles were Kristen Smith (third place) with a time of 25:55, Andrea Gayton (26:50)  in sixth place, and Lauren Garrison (27:25) in seventh place.

Also finishing the race for WBC was Breana Roberts with a time of 28:44, and Taylor Johnson with a time of 34:19.

The Lady Eagles will take part in the College of Ozarks Invitational on Sept. 9. This meet will be held in Hollister, Mo.