September 3, 2022

The Vaquero Men and Vaquera Women kicked off the cross country season on Saturday at the George Kyte Classic held in Flagstaff, AZ.  The men, who had 9 of the 11 on the roster competing, finished 9th in the meet.  The women's team only had 2 of their 9 competing on Saturday so they did not have a team score.  The George Kyte Classic typically boasts NCAA #1 ranked NAU and other area universities in addition to the junior colleges in Arizona.  

For the men, Sophomore Alazar Getahun impressed by placing 20th overall at the meet.  Alazar, who ran nearly 2 and a half minutes faster than his previous best, also placed himself in the bigger universities top 5 placing.  

"Alazar ran outstanding today, he really worked hard this summer and placed some lofty goals in regards to his running.  There is no doubt in my mind he'll achieve them." Stated Head Coach Jon Harmon.

Finishing out scoring for the men was Julian Campos (39th Ovr), Jorge Corona (41st Ovr), Asante Maez (55th Ovr), and Namath Gene (61st Ovr).  "The men are a young team, with the exception of Alazar, they have never raced a distance longer than 5k.  So as they continue to build so too will their confidence and strength" Harmon stated. 

The Vaquera's, who only had finishes from Lisbet Porras and Jaedyn Brown, rose to the challenge and proved they can compete against the other junior colleges in the state.  Lisbet bested her time from last year by over a minute and was also the 2nd junior college runner to finish the race.  She placed 47th Overall.  

"Lisbet continues to impress each day, she works hard and is starting to build confidence.  I'm proud of her and Jaedyn for representing CAC today, the other ladies will build off what they can do and will be ready to compete at the next meet"  Said Coach Harmon.

Central Arizona's Cross Country Teams will be back in action on 9/10/22 at their home meet, The 2nd Annual CAMPY Invitational.  The meet will boast the local junior colleges in the state and recognizes former coaches and admin from CAC's rich history.  

For results from George Kyte click here.