Navy Women’s Cross Country Dominates at Cantello Invitational

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – The Navy women’s cross country team showcased an impressive performance at the Cantello Invitational, securing victory in the women’s 6K race held at the USNA Golf Course. With a remarkable team score of just 19 points, Navy not only triumphed but also highlighted an exceptional debut by freshman Juliet Frum, who clinched the individual medalist title.

Top Performers

• Juliet Frum: First place with a time of 22:28.8, leading by nearly 20 seconds.
• Samantha Woodworth: Finished third at 22:53.5.
• Catalina Simon: Fourth place in 23:00.6.
• Paige Sheiffele: Fifth with a time of 23:02.9.
• Madeline Palmisciano: Sixth, crossing the finish line at 23:09.8.

Navy’s strong finish was underscored by a powerful showing, with seven runners placing within the top eleven. Senior leader Samantha Woodworth demonstrated composure under pressure, securing the third position, while the fresh talent of Frum and Simon made their collegiate debuts memorable.

Team Results

Navy’s outstanding performance led them to a commanding victory over their competitors. The overall scores were as follows:

• 1st: Navy – 19 points
• 2nd: UMBC – 55 points
• 3rd: Mount St. Mary’s – 101 points
• 4th: Loyola & Catholic – 122 points (tied)
• 6th: Southern Virginia – 129 points

Coach’s Insights

Head coach Kim Lewnes praised the team’s execution, noting, “The women executed the race plan perfectly today. They were disciplined in their packs early on and controlled the race.” She highlighted both Frum and Simon’s impactful contributions, stating, “What a memorable experience for these plebes, winning the race individually for Juliet and contributing to the team win in a big way for both of them.” Lewnes also commended the hard work and progress shown by the other team members, emphasizing their commitment to improvement.

Additional Competitors

Navy’s squad included additional participants in the women’s varsity 6K:

• Susanna Henderson – 9th place, 23:31.2
• Stella Perazzini – 11th place, 23:38.7
• Constance Goldenberg – 23:51.8
• Caroline Montemaro – 23:57.6
• Sarah Colebrooke – 24:05.8
• Amelie Loomis – 24:08.8
• Lorraine Goldenberg – 24:30.6

Open 5K Results

In the open 5K event, Navy also performed well, with sophomore Marianna Pizem finishing ninth (20:23.0) and freshman Cadence Keese just behind in tenth (20:45.6). Junior Milana Breuninger followed in twelfth place with a time of 21:14.1.

Looking Ahead

Next, Navy will compete at the Gans Creek Classic in Columbia, Missouri, hosted by the University of Missouri, on Friday, September 26.