September 10, 2022

The 2nd Annual CAMPY Invitational, which honors 5 key figures in CAC Cross Country that helped the programs win 9 National Championships combined, kicked off on Saturday.  This year's CAMPY hosted Coconino CC, Phoenix CC, Tohono O'dham CC, Mesa CC, Pima CC, College of Southern Nevada, and Parks University. 

Chuck Schnoor-Retired Athletic Director, Al Shirley-Retired CAC Coach, Mike Gray-Retired CAC Coach, Paul Tavares-Retired CAC Coach, and 4x Olympian George Young-Retired CAC Coach spell out CAMPY and are honored at the meet each year.  The 5 men continue to support the program and the athletes at CAC and set high standards for those that follow.

"It's an honor to say I followed these men and now say I coach at CAC.  I'm blessed and will work hard to maintain the high standards of the program at the region and national level"  Stated current Head Coach Jon Harmon.  

The Vaqueras, who took runner-up honors, were led by Beatrice Keditukei (4th ovr), Lisbet Porras (5th ovr), and Jaida Lyles (6th ovr).

"The three ladies ran well and kept the leaders close, each week they are getting stronger.  Now we have to continue to build and support the remaining ladies so we can contend at the National level" Stated Harmon. 

Jaedyn Brown (21st ovr) and Brianna Samuels (28th ovr) rounding out scoring for the women's team.  

The men were once again led by Sophomore Alazar Getahun.  Getahun toured the course in 25:36, claiming runner up honors and setting a new personal best. 

"Alazar continues to impress each week, he really worked hard this summer and his teammates are feeding off of that" Said Harmon. 

The next 4 men all ran their first 8k and fared well: Julian Campos (5th ovr), Namath Gene (14th ovr), Asante Maez (17th ovr), Gabriel Romo (24th ovr) rounded out the scoring, earning 3rd place in the process.  

"As a team we had to sit a couple of runners for various reasons so I challenged the guys to step up in their absence, and that's what they did.  Great effort from both squads today" Said Coach Harmon.

The cross country teams are back in action on 9/17 at Riverside, CA.  The Vaqueros and Vaqueras will be competing in the 41st Annual UCR Invitational.  

For complete results from CAMPY, click here.