GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The University of Providence cross country team is a day away from the Frontier Conference Championships, which will take place in Dillon, Mont. on Friday. The men's race will begin at 10:30 a.m., with the women's race beginning at 11:30 a.m.
It's been awhile since the Argos have competed in a race. The men's team competed in a
dual against Montana State-Northern two weeks ago, and the women haven't competed
since the Providence Open on Oct. 1. Despite the break, head coach
Tony Arntson believes the team is ready to roll.
"I feel very good," he said. "We've had a good week of workouts. I'm very excited for a good handful of our individuals."
On the men's side,
Nash Grafe and
Ciaran Molloy look to build on their successful season. Molloy finished third at the dual in Havre, Mont., while Grafe took fourth place at the Providence Open at Anaconda Hills, one of the toughest courses in the state. Grafe's performance earned him recognition as
the Erck Hotels Frontier Conference Cross Country of the Week.
"I'm very excited about both of those two," Arntson said. "They've had great seasons and I think they'll have their best races Friday. Their expectations for themselves is high. I'm excited to watch them run."
On the women's side,
Doreen Koech will hope to build on her strong showing at the Providence Open, where she finished fifth. Arntson also expects
Angie Sletten to surprise some people.
"I think Doreen is going to break out and maybe have her best run of the year," Arntson said. "She's excited for it. She is ready to put her name in the conference mix for sure. Angie has done a great job leading the team and keeping our girls together. She's had some major growth this season."
The team is also hoping to improve their team score at the conference level.
"There's no doubt in my mind that our kids have gotten better all year," Arntson said. "Our kids have done a great job. They're excited about getting out in the conference meet tomorrow. They've grown a ton throughout the season. They've pushed each other all year long. I'm very excited to watch them run that final one."
