NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regionals Set for Princeton Women’s Cross Country

The Princeton women’s cross country team is primed to compete at the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regionals this Friday, November 14, at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The race, which is scheduled to start at 12 p.m., follows the team’s notable success at the Ivy League Championship.

Recent Achievements

On October 31, the Tigers secured their second consecutive Ivy League Championship, a remarkable feat punctuated by a dominant team finish. Princeton’s scoring lineup achieved a 1-2-5-8-11 placement for a total score of 27, decisively outpacing Yale by 55 points. This victory marks the largest margin in Ivy League history since 2012.

• The team score tied for the ninth-best in Ivy League history.
• This is only the fourth occasion on which Princeton finished with under 30 points.
• Anna McNatt and Meg Madison secured the top two individual podium spots, the first time teammates have achieved this since 2012.

McNatt finished first, crossing the line seven seconds ahead of her closest competitor, highlighting the team’s exceptional depth and talent. Caroline Barton, Emma De Jong, and Maddie Cramer also contributed significantly to the team’s scoring.

Season Overview

The 2025 season has seen Princeton rise to a fifth-place ranking in the Mid-Atlantic Region, demonstrating consistent improvement throughout the year. Both McNatt and Madison have made substantial contributions, earning dual Ivy Athlete of the Week honors for their remarkable performances.

In the most recent competition at the Fall Classic, the Tigers finished in a commendable second place, narrowly missing first by just two points against Boise State. Notably, McNatt delivered a standout performance, earning a silver medal out of over 250 runners while setting a new personal record.

Experience on the Course

Princeton has faced tough competition in both regional and national settings, showcasing their strength in various meets. They triumphed at the Iona Paddy Doyle Championship, a critical event that provided valuable race experience. The Tigers demonstrated their prowess by achieving a near-perfect score of 19, with Madison finishing first by a significant fifteen seconds and the team securing multiple top finishes.

Coaching Leadership

Guiding the Princeton team is Brad Hunt, now in his tenth season as head coach. His leadership has earned him accolades, such as the Ivy Cross Country Coach of the Year for 2025, a testament to his successful strategies that have steered the team to consecutive championships. Additionally, he was recognized as Mid-Atlantic Region Assistant Coach of the Year in the outdoor track season.

As the Tigers head into the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regionals, they aim to build on their impressive performance during the season. Their preparation and recent accolades create a strong foundation for what lies ahead.