AU News
Wed, Sep 2, 2009 - [Women's Cross Country]
Freshman Nkemdilim Okwumabua was one of four newcomers making their AU debut
Freshman Nkemdilim Okwumabua was one of four newcomers making their AU debut
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. - The Ashford University women's cross country squad also got its fall campaign going in a season-opening 4K meet at the Augustana Early Opener held yesterday. Just like the men's cross country team, AU Head Coach Tyson Graham sent out five individuals that included four newcomers and a returner.

Graham had his first chance to see his team in a competitive format after undergoing several weeks of rigorous practice.

"We are still learning and for most of our girls, it was their first official college race," Graham said. "As long as we continue to learn how to race and continue improving, I think we will be doing very well by the end of the season."

Freshman Nkemdilim Okwumabua of Rockford, Ill., paced the Saints with an 18:40 time. Senior Nichole Salazar of Minooka, Ill., was just 13 seconds behind, coming at 18:53.

Freshman Ashley Murray of Mason City also made her AU debut and finished one tick over the 19-minute mark at 19:01. Olivia Canales (25:32) of Sterling, Ill., and Chhutani Berry (27:19) of Chicago rounded out the team scoring.

The following results are considered unofficial and placings are currently unavailable.

Augustana Early Opener Results
N/A - Nkemdilim Okwumabua (18:40)
N/A - Nichole Salazar (18:53)
N/A - Ashley Murray (19:01)
N/A - Olivia Canales (25:32)
N/A - Chhutani Berry (27:19)