PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas — September 24, 2026 — The North American University men's cross country team took on the heat, humidity and rolling grass course Thursday at the Clifton Gilliard Invitational, hosted by Prairie View A&M University.
With temperatures pushing into the mid-90s and a course featuring grass, wooded sections, turns and gradual elevation changes, the Stallions faced conditions that demanded patience and endurance.
Abbot Acosta led North American across the finish line, completing the 8K in 28:53.7, averaging 5:48.7 per mile and finishing 19th overall.
Behind Acosta, Tyler Johns crossed in 33:19.8, averaging 6:42.3 per mile to finish 22nd. Gino Burioni followed at 34:29.6, averaging 6:56.3 per mile and placing 24th.
Christopher Spight rounded out the North American runners, finishing the 8K in 53:40.3, with an average mile of 10:47.7.
The Stallions competed against runners from Prairie View A&M, Sam Houston, Texas Southmost College and Huston-Tillotson. Prairie View's Thierry Garcon won the men's race in 25:47.5, while Sam Houston placed four runners among the top five.
For North American, the Clifton Gilliard Invitational was another opportunity to put miles in the bank and gain experience against a diverse field.
Stallion Results
- Abbot Acosta: 28:53.7 — 19th
- Tyler Johns: 33:19.8 — 22nd
- Gino Burioni: 34:29.6 — 24th
- Christopher Spight: 53:40.3 — 29th
Up Next
The Stallions return to action on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. CDT at the Our Lady of the Lake / OLLU Cross-Country Invitational. After battling the heat and challenging conditions at Prairie View, North American will look to carry that experience into its next meet.
Rev. Jackson
Sports Information Director / Only oN Clutch Sports Broadcast
