POCATELLO, Idaho – Idaho State cross country traveled to the Pre-Nationals Invitational this weekend, competing against a deep national field. The Bengals turned in strong performances on both sides, highlighted by Seth Babbel's top-25 finish in a highly competitive men's race and a standout effort from the women, with both teams beating Big Sky rivals and teams from the Big 10 and Big 12.
Babbel continued his strong season, finishing 24th overall in 23:46.4 and scoring 23 points for the Bengals. He was joined by teammates Sunny Gunn (118th, 24:55.9, 110 points) and Gavin Pollock (141st, 25:07.3, 128 points), as well as sophomore Jacob DeTemple (226th, 26:08.8, 190 points) and freshmen Ryan Estrada (234th, 26:17.1, 195 points) and Chase Markunas (239th, 26:29.1). Their efforts led the men's team to beat three Big 10 schools of Illinois, Nebraska and Iowa as well as Big 12 competitor Kansas State.
The women also made a statement, scoring 871 points and finishing ahead of key Big Sky competitors in Montana State and Northern Colorado, while also knocking off a Big 10 member in Purdue. Senior Ashley Reeck led the way with a 125th-place finish in 21:16.6 (117 points). She was closely followed by Natalya Babcock (177th, 21:43.7, 161 points), Allie Lemons (196th, 21:54.1, 174 points), Kamber Scott (216th, 22:01.8, 187 points), and Olivia Kendell (277th, 22:36.0, 232 points). Sixth and seventh runners Kaitlyn Blackham (298th, 22:56.9) and Alivia Johnson (320th, 23:25.6) provided valuable depth.
With the Pre-Nationals Invitational complete and important competition experience under their belts, the Bengals now look ahead to the Big Sky Conference Championships in Bozeman, Montana, in two weeks, where both teams hope to make a statement. While the regular season has come to an end, postseason hopes remain very much alive as the Bengals aim to peak at the right time.
