Flagstaff, Az. – The Coconino Community College men’s cross country team launched its 2025 season at the George Kyte Classic on Saturday at Buffalo Park, facing off against a powerhouse field that included 6x national champion Northern Arizona, Big 12 programs Arizona and Arizona State, and several top junior colleges.
Northern Arizona swept the top five to win the meet on their home course, but the Comets battled through the altitude and hilly terrain to place 12th overall as a team. Leading the charge for CCC was sophomore Theodore Round Face, who crossed the line in 25:14.7 to secure the top spot for the Comets. He was followed by sophomore Kenneth Nez in 25:45.7, while fellow sophomore Zach Biah finished in 27:26.4.
Freshmen Harrison Kessenich and Sabino Chatter rounded out the scoring five in their collegiate debuts, gaining valuable experience against one of the deepest fields they will see all year.
Head Coach Craig Hunt said the meet was an important building block for the season.
“Buffalo Park is always a tough opener, especially with the level of competition this meet attracts. I was really encouraged by how our guys handled themselves and competed. This is the type of race that makes you better down the road.”
The Comets will look to build on this performance when they return to action next Saturday, September 6, at the Embry-Riddle Arizona Invitational in Prescott.
CCC volunteer coach and NAU alumni Ryan Raff, who now competes professionally for HOKA, won the overall race in 22:12.8, highlighting the high level of competition on display.
