Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

The Lady Stallions laced up and left their mark at the Clifton Gilliard Invitational hosted by Prairie View A&M University on September 25, 2025, at the Gov. Bill and Vara Daniel Ranch and Farm. Competing On The Hill just outside the shadow of the historic Baby Dome, North American University's women's cross country squad showcased grit, history-making speed, and a glimpse of what's to come.

Samantha Medina put on a show for Stallion Nation, storming across the 5K course with a time of 22:20.97. Not only did Medina finish 16th overall out of 35 runners, but she also set a new school record in the process. Her run stamped her name permanently in NAU history books as she continues to raise the standard for the program.

Close behind, Milca Ramirez delivered a personal breakthrough performance. Ramirez claimed 19th place overall with a time of 25:17.55, setting a new personal record that speaks volumes about her dedication and steady progression this season. Both Lady Stallions finished in the Top 20, a strong showing against a field packed with regional powerhouses.

The Invitational featured competition from some of the area's toughest programs including Sam Houston (event winner), St. Thomas (Texas), Huston-Tillotson, and Victoria College, making the Lady Stallions' results even more impressive. Full results are available online through NTX Timing here.

With history already written at Prairie View, the Stallions now turn their focus toward the next challenge: the Arturo Barrios Invitational on October 17, 2025, at the Watts Cross Country Course in College Station, Texas. Expect this duo to carry momentum and keep pushing the pace as NAU continues its rise in the cross country scene.

Coach Kenneth Apande praised the performances, saying:

"I love seeing everyone's progress. We have to get everyone healthy this week. We've got the injury bug going around, but I'm sure we'll shake it off. Let's continue to get after it. We've got another full week ahead of us, and XC has a meet this week at TAMU. Tyler killed it today! Both girls killed it as well. I'm so proud! We all PR'ed!"

Stallion Nation—Get those 4-fingered hooves up and celebrate a School Record and a Personal Record earned On The Hill! Gooooooooo Stallionssssss!!!!!!!!!!!