Powell Earns Honors at PSUAC Cross Country Championships

Although freshman runner Caitlyn Powell stands at about 5 feet tall, don't mistake her stride for anything short of powerful.  This year Caitlyn has made a name for herself in the PSUAC, finishing in the top ten in all of her conference meets.  On her home course, Caitlyn buddied up with teammate Cheyenne Tussel to finish 2nd in the Simoncelli Relays and 4th individually at the Nittany Lion Invitational.  On the road, she finished 8th during her first visit to PSU Mont Alto leading her to a 6th place slot this past weekend at Norlo Park in Fayetteville, the site of PSUAC Championships, where she finished the 6k course in 32:30. 

Caitlyn, a 2018 graduate of Athens High School, is a former track and field runner and gymnast.  “Caitlyn is fierce and focused on continuously improving as a runner,” Head Coach Diana Kloss commented.  “She comes from a disciplined background in gymnastics and that mental toughness blends well with how tough she has to be as a runner.”

With her home course sitting on the side of a multitude of hills, it’s no wonder Caitlyn loves the downhills in a race.  Declines are where she gains her edge over her competitors that might have a longer stride, and she builds off that to carry her to the finish. 

When asked about her future as a runner, Coach Kloss proudly stated, “Caitlyn is dedicated, consistent and strong. She will be unstoppable in this sport and this is just the beginning!”

Catch Cailtyn (if you can!) and her teammates training for the upcoming USCAA National Championships in Virginia Beach, VA next week!