DUBUQUE, Iowa - The Ashford University men's cross country team wrapped up the 2011 season with a third place finish at the MCC Championships.

However, it won't be the last time three Saints step on the course this season. Senior Doug Powers, sophomore Brian Meyer and freshman Alex Gonzales will be headed to the NAIA National Championships with their performance in this afternoon's meet.

With the adversity the three battled this season, it was a nice finish to their season schedule.

"We are extremely proud of how our men's team did today," Saints' Head Coach Tyson Graham said. "Brian, Doug, and Alex qualifying for nationals was nice considering we have been battling some injuries off and on throughout the season.  I felt like we ran well today. I'm sure Doug will appreciate the company at Nationals this year."

Powers finished in sixth place after running a time of 27:52, while Meyer finished right behind him in seventh after running a 27:59. The two were named to the First Team All-MCC squad as a result.

Gonzales also cracked the top-10 for the Saints, finishing 10th with a time of 28:15. As a result, he was named to the MCC Honorable Mention squad.

Freshman Tyler Randolph ran a strong race, finishing in 16th place with a time of 29:01. Freshman Zach Pavlich rounded out the Ashford times, finishing in 36th place with a time of 30:41.

St. Ambrose junior Kevin Randle took home the top individual position with a time of 27:20. Mount Mercy took the top team spot with 29 points overall.

The three Saints will compete at the NAIA National Tournament on Nov. 19 in Vancouver, Wash.