Nov. 17, 2012

LOUSVILLE, Ky. - Loyola University Chicago senior Gina Valgoi posted a time of 20:50, the second fastest time of her career, to finish in 104th-place at the NCAA National Championships in Louisville, Ky. this afternoon. Valgoi was the first female cross country student-athlete to compete in the nationals meet in program history.

"I thought Gina competed very well," stated head coach Randy Hasenbank. "To be able to compete against so many other great runners and turn in the second fastest time of her career is a huge accomplishment. She has had a wonderful season, made some great memoires and represented Loyola well."

The senior from Detroit, Mich. represented herself well today at Tom Sawyer State Park in a field that consisted of 253 runners. Betsy Saina (Iowa State) finished with a time of 19:27 to claim medalist honors while Oregon, tallying 114 points, won the team championship.

"This experience has made me realize how truly blessed I am," commented Valgoi. "It was the best possible way to end my collegiate career. Of course a top 40 finish would have been incredible but I am proud of what I have accomplished. I am so thankful to Loyola, my coaches and my teammates for their support. I would not have been this successful without them."

Valgoi, along with many of her teammates, will now turn her attention to the indoor track season. The Ramblers open the season at the Laker Early Bird Invite in Allendale, Mich. on Friday, November 30.