The Carleton College women’s cross country team had two runners in the top five, and the Knights won the Central Regional competition. The victory also secures a return trip for the team to next week’s NCAA Championships. This is the second consecutive season and 12th time in program history, the Knights have advanced to the national meet as a team. Sophomore Simone Childs-Walker placed fourth, one spot in front of senior Laura Roach.

After a dominating win at the MIAC Championships, several Knights officially received their awards from the MIAC. Donna Ricks was named Coach of the Year, while Simone Childs-Walker, Taylor Ffitch and Laura Roach received their All-MIAC honors. Alison Smyth earned All-MIAC honorable mention and Nikki Reich was selected for the MIAC All-Sportsmanship team.

The Carleton College women's cross country team won its fourth Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) title as Simone Childs-Walker, Taylor Ffitch, and Laura Roach placed second, fifth and eighth respectively to capture All-MIAC honors. The Knights totaled 65 points, finishing well clear of Bethel University (91 points), University of St. Thomas (94) and St. Olaf College (98) as Carleton won its first title since 2005.

In the most recent national poll released by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) national poll the Carleton women’s cross country team remained at No. 20. The Knights and several other programs were idle last week as they prepare for conference championships.