Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

Dallas, TX – The hoofbeats are back, and the North American University Stallions Cross Country Team is ready to thunder into the 2025 season with speed, stamina, and straight-up Stallion swagger! After a 2024 campaign that turned heads and broke records, the Stallions are hungry, focused, and raring to show the NAIA and USCAA what Texas heart looks like on the course.

Reflecting on 2024:
Last year, the Stallions made waves at the USCAA National Championships in Lemont Furnace, PA. Freshman phenom Elina Gonzalez stole the show, finishing 39th in the 6K with a blazing 29:58.50 despite rain-soaked, slippery conditions as the 4th freshmen in the field beating several big named upperclassmen athletes. She also set the school record at the UT-Tyler XC Opener with a jaw-dropping 25:49.29—earning herself NAU Cross Country Freshman of the Year and Runner of the Year honors.

Demry Salciado also left her mark, finishing 53rd at nationals while balancing track events and serving as football team equipment manager. Leadership? Check. Dedication? Check. Team culture? Absolutely elevated.

Saying Goodbye:
This season, the Stallions bid farewell to Elina Gonzalez, a trailblazer whose impact will echo in NAU XC history for years. Her record-breaking times and relentless drive set the standard for those following in her hoofprints.

Fresh Faces to Watch:
But don't blink—new talent is galloping onto the scene. Meet the 2025 freshmen ready to shake up the lineup:

Tyler Johns – A lightning-fast starter with a killer finish. He's coming to prove he belongs on the collegiate stage.

Samantha Medina – Smooth stride, tactical genius, with consistent pace—watch her own the course.

Milca Ramirez – Dual threat from cross country and track, bringing endurance and depth to the team.

Daisjah Hutto-Clark – Raw talent, dual threat, fierce work ethic, ready to hit the ground running. (Sprinter)

Upcoming Races:
The Stallions kicked off their season on August 30 at Southwestern University and now set their sights on:

• Sept 7 – UT-Tyler

• Sept 13 – Rice University

• Oct 5 – Dallas Baptist University

• Oct 10 – Prairie View A&M

• USCAA Nationals – November, Pennsylvania

Stallion Family, This Is Your Moment:
Your cheers, your energy, your presence—these runners feel it all! Whether you're in the stands or hyping online, it counts. These athletes run with pride, grit, and heart, carrying the Stallion spirit at every mile.

So saddle up, mark your calendars, and get ready for fast starts, strategic surges, and finishes that will make you jump out of your seats.

Get those 4-fingered Hooves up and Goooooooo Stallionsssss!!!!!!!!!!!
#StallionStrong #NAUXC #RunNAU #CrossCountrySeason