The St. Thomas Aquinas women's cross country team has made another jump in the USTFCCCA East Region ranking this week, moving up three spots.  The Lady Spartans entered the ranking only two weeks ago at number 10, but back to back wins against numerous ranked opponents has fostered the move.

Afer a first place finish at the Highlander Technology Challenge two weeks ago, the STAC runners racked up two more victories this past weekend.  Competing at the Belmont Plateau course in their first 6K race of the season, the Lady Spartans defeated host Philadelphia University (ranked #3 last week) to take first place in the Jack St Clair Memorial race.  This race also served as the Collegiate Track Conference Championship.  Only members of the CTC were scored in those results creating a smaller field.

Freshman Kristen Borriello was the top finisher for the Lady Spartans, winning the CTC Championship and placing 3rd in the Jack St. Clair Memorial.  She clocked a time of 24:11.  Sophomore Katie O'Grady added another personal record, after setting the STAC 5K record last week, with a time of 24:29.  Redshirt sophomore Meaghan Ventarola also posted a strong performance crossing the line in 24:59.  Just nine seconds later, junior Gabby Sloezen finished followed by freshmen Angelica Matwiejczuk at 25:18.  The Lady Spartans top five finishers crossed the line in a span of 1:07.  They also recieved strong support from grad student Ally Borriello (25:21) and senior Ashley Weintraub (25:54).

The Lady Spartans will take next week off from racing, but will return to action on Friday, October 25th at the Haverford Invitational.

Complete USTFCCA Release