Madi Szymanski, a sophomore at Northern Michigan University, had an impressive season in college women’s cross country. She represented Northern Michigan University at the NCAA Division II Championships and finished 65th out of over 260 runners in a field. Szymanski finished the six-kilometer course in 21 minutes and 6.2 seconds.
Throughout the race, she moved up in the field, going from 91st at the 1K mark to 73rd at the 5K mark. Despite finishing outside of the top 60, Szymanski was still proud of her performance and grateful for the opportunity to represent her school on such a big stage.
Szymanski had an impressive season overall, earning All-GLIAC honors and All-Region recognition. Her personal record time for a 6K improved three times throughout the season, with a time of 20:55.83 at the regionals being her best finish. NMU cross country coach Jenny Ryan praised Szymanski for her incredible season and hard work.
Grand Valley State took home the team title for the seventh time in program history, with all of their top five runners finishing inside the first 30. The team’s success can be attributed to their dedication and commitment to excellence throughout the season.