Saint Leo University (SLU) cross country runner Tereza Novotna concluded her freshman season with a 64th-place performance at the NCAA Division II national meet on Nov. 19 in Spokane, Wash.
“The race was tough, but I made it,” Novotna said. “It was a great experience.”
The native of Opocno, Czech Republic ran a 23:03 in the 6-kilometer race. She is the first Lions runner to qualify for nationals.
“I am proud of Tereza,” said SLU coach Melissa Miller-Mangen. “The NCAA championships are one of the most memorable events to participate in. She is already aiming for the 2012 championships to build upon this performance.”
Novotna was named the Sunshine State Conference Runner of the Year this season while also setting program records for lowest times in a 5K and 6K.
