Men's Cross Country - Freshman
Tyler Johns Makes Debut at Bearkat Twilight
Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
Huntsville, TX (September 5, 2025) – The future of North American University Men's Cross Country officially took off under the lights at the Bearkat Twilight Invitational, and freshman Tyler Johns wasted no time leaving his mark in the record books.
Racing his first collegiate 6K at Kate Barr Ross Park, Johns turned heads with a fearless performance against a stacked field that included Division I and II programs. From the opening stride, the Houston native ran with intent, pushing through the fast early tempo before finding his rhythm and grinding out the final meters with grit.
When the clock stopped, Johns crossed in 21:26 – not just a strong debut, but a new school record for the Stallions. As the first men's runner to ever lace up for NAU Cross Country, Johns has already carved his name into Stallion history.
Athletic Director and Head Track Coach Kenneth Apande praised the breakthrough performance:
"Tyler set the tone for what Stallion Cross Country is about—courage, work ethic, and discipline. To establish the first men's school record in his debut is special. This is just the beginning of what he's capable of," Apande said.
With one race, Johns didn't just finish. He established a standard. The bar has been set for every Stallion who follows.
Get those 4 fingered Hooves up and Goooooooo Stallionsssss!!!!!!!!!!!
#NAUCrossCountry #StallionsRising
Meet Box – Men's 5K
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Event: Sam Houston State Bearkat Twilight Invitational
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Location: Kate Barr Ross Park – Huntsville, TX
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Date: September 5, 2025
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Conditions: Evening race, mild temps, grass course with concrete sections
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NAU Results:
