NCAA D1 Cross Country Championships Women's Preview

Friday, 22 November 2024

As the 2024 NCAA Division I Women’s Cross Country Championships approach, anticipation builds for an exhilarating competition at the Thomas Zimmer Championship Cross Country Course in Madison, Wisconsin on Saturday, November 23. This year's race, set to take place in crisp November weather, promises to showcase a blend of seasoned teams and emerging collegiate talents vying for the prestigious team and individual titles.

Favorite Teams for the Team Title:

The favorite for the women's team title is Brigham Young University (BYU), which has consistently topped the charts throughout the season. After dominating at the Pre-Nationals, Big 12 Championships, and the Mountain Regional, BYU is poised to possibly complete the first simultaneous men's and women's NCAA title sweep since Colorado in 2004. This performance follows a year of rebuilding after their 14th-place finish in 2023, demonstrating a significant return to form.

Not far behind is the University of Oregon, which has seen a revival under the guidance of Coach Shalane Flanagan. Oregon’s team, spearheaded by top performers from the Big Ten and West Regional Championships, has not only displayed formidable depth but also strategic acumen in their late-season races. Their highest ranking since 2018 and a podium finish then suggests they are serious contenders.

Another team to watch is Northern Arizona University (NAU). Under the stewardship of Coach Mike Smith, the NAU women’s team has risen to prominence, narrowly missing the championship last year by a single point. This year, they’ve maintained a strong presence in national rankings and could upset the favorites with their demonstrated consistency and peak late-season performance.

Favorite Individual Runners:

The individual race also features a dynamic field of competitors, each capable of capturing the national title. Pamela Kosgei of New Mexico, a freshman sensation, has made waves with her undefeated season, including a record-breaking run at the Pre-Nationals. Her exceptional pedigree and strong performance under pressure make her the frontrunner.

Hilda Olemomoi from Florida, known for her top finishes in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters at last year’s NCAAs, along with Doris Lemngole from Alabama, a seasoned competitor with a NCAA steeplechase title, are both top contenders. Their previous head-to-head finishes indicate a rivalry that could push each to excel.

West Virginia’s Ceili McCabe, who took a year off for the Olympics, has shown she can compete with the best, boasting strong finishes throughout the season. McCabe’s experience and previous high placements suggest she could be a dark horse in this race.

Additionally, the likes of Juliet Cherubet from Texas Tech and the duo from BYU, Lexy Halladay-Lowry and Riley Chamberlain, should not be underestimated. Each has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season and could surprise many with a strong finish at the nationals.

In conclusion, the 2024 NCAA DI Women’s Cross Country Championships are set to be a showcase of talent and strategic racing. With teams like BYU and Oregon at the forefront, and individual stars like Kosgei and Olemomoi ready to shine, the championships will undoubtedly be a highlight of the collegiate cross-country calendar.

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