Flagstaff, Ariz. – The Coconino Community College men’s cross country team stepped onto a highly competitive stage at the Highlander Invitational in Riverside, California, and delivered one of their most complete efforts of the season. Facing a deep field of four-year universities, club teams, and top junior colleges, the Comets placed 8th overall in a 13-team field with every CCC runner setting a personal best in the process.
Sophomore Theodore Round Face led the charge with a breakthrough performance, clocking 25:52.7 for 12th place. His time marked a major step forward and currently ranks him 5th in the Region 1 standings.
Close behind was fellow sophomore Zach Biah, who crossed in 26:48.4, continuing his consistent rise through the fall. Kenneth Nez delivered another strong race in 27:10.9, and freshman Harrison Kessenich broke into new territory with a 30:14.5 personal best. Freshman Andrew Hartzell added another PR to the list with a 32:52.8 debut at the 8k distance, showcasing steady improvement in his return to competition after injury. Fellow freshman Sabino Chatter rounded out the squad with a significant jump of his own, running 35:24.1 to complete CCC’s lineup.
Competing against NCAA programs, club teams, and some of the strongest junior college talent on the West Coast, the Comets held their own and finished ahead of Cal State Los Angeles, UCLA Club, Whittier, Cal Lutheran, and Nevada State. Just two points separated CCC from 7th-place Occidental.
“Top to bottom, everyone showed up and competed,” said Head Coach Craig Hunt. “When every athlete on the roster leaves with a new personal best, that speaks to preparation, effort and belief.”
The Comets will compete next at the Region 1 Championships on Friday, October 24, at Crossroads District Park, in Gilbert, Arizona.
