SEATTLE, Wash. – Katja Baeuerle of the Parkside women's cross country team competed in the NCAA Division II Cross Country National Championships at Chambers Creek Regional Park in Seattle, Wash. on Friday. The redshirt sophomore from Bretten, Germany finished in 83^rd place with a time of 21:55.9, placing her in the top third of the field of over 250 runners.

HOW IT HAPPENED
Baeuerle started around the spot in the field that she finished, coming through 600 meters in 80^th place. The second mile proved to be a struggle, as Baeuerle fell back to 98^th place, before slowly climbing back in positioning. She moved back into 90^th place at the 5,000 meter mark, before passing seven more runners in the final 1,000 meters to move back into 83^rd at the finish.

HEAR FROM COACH MAAS
"Katja ran a tough race for her first time at nationals. To be honest, we went in, being grateful for the opportunity and were planning to race hard and have fun. She did that and now has the experience to carry into track season. I promise you that she will have a track season to remember and she plans to make an impact at the national meet with her newfound experience! We are all very proud of her season and look forward to the next season!"

UP NEXT
With the cross country season coming to a close, track season wastes no time getting started, as the Rangers will compete in the Forever Red Alumni Classic at Carthage College. For more information, visit parksiderangers.com.