Cross Country Races Through Snow at the NJCAA Championships
November 8, 2025
Erie cross country traveled to Fort Dodge, IA, to compete at the 2025 NJCAA Cross Country Championships, hosted by Iowa Central Community College. Winter weather arrived just hours before the gun, covering the course in more than an inch of snow and creating true cross country conditions for the national championship.
Men's 8K
In the first race of the day, the Erie men battled through the slick footing. Lukas Heerdt surged over the second half of the race to finish 87th in 34:44. Janek McLeod followed close behind in 89th, clocking 34:54 and closing out his season with a strong effort.
Women's 5K
Erie women placed 10th in the team standings, with five runners pushing through the storm to reach the finish line.
Emma Palumbo continued her rise on the national stage, placing 28th overall, a 16-place improvement from last year's championship.
Madison Palumbo took 57th in 26:43, followed by Alondra Morales in 73rd (32:35), Megan Martinez in 75th (33:43), and Erik Blersch in 76th (34:01).
From the Coach
"I'm really proud of how we performed today," said Head Coach Chris Muldoon. "You have to be ready for anything in cross country, and today was a perfect example. We talked about embracing the elements—after all, we're from Buffalo. Times didn't matter today; it was just about racing. It was a fun way to end the season."