The Cyclones posted a runner-up finish as a team in the men’s division and a 20th-place finish in the women’s division in the Nuttycombe Wisconsin Invitational Friday. 

Madison, Wisconsin, played host to a packed field for the meet. The Iowa State men posted a total time of 1:59:10.70, falling just short of BYU for the win. Washington placed first in the women’s division.

Men’s recap

A strong team effort allowed the Cyclone men to finish second place in Madison. 

The highlight of the day came from freshman Robin Kwemoi Bera, who finished his 8k race in 23:18.2. He placed fifth as an individual racer in the first event of his career.

Other top finishers for Iowa State included seniors Said Mechaal with a 19th place finish and Silas Winders came home 22nd. 

Overall, the men had a solid day as a team, with all seven of their finishers inside the top 60 in a field of over 175 runners. The Cyclones came into the race ranked fifth in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) National Coaches Poll and do not look to be slowing down. 

Iowa State will be a force to be reckoned with when they return to Wisconsin for Pre-Nationals on Oct. 19th.

Women’s recap

The Cyclone women followed up their runner-up finish Saturday in Nebraska with a top-20 result in Wisconsin. 

Junior Maelle Porcher was Iowa State’s top finisher, placing 16th in her 6k race. Porcher finished with a time of 20:30.0. She has been a consistent finisher for the Cyclones, racking up numerous awards including being named All-Big 12 cross country last season. She will be one to watch come the Big 12 Championships in November.

Redshirt junior Riley Beach and redshirt junior Bella Heikes would also finish in the top 100, coming in at 94th and 95th respectively. 

The women will look to stay consistent and climb through the field as they move forward to Pre-Nationals.