OLLU’s Moran Sets New 8K Record in Stacked Field at Texas A&M Invitational
College Station, Texas- The Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) men's cross country team showcased its depth and determination over a demanding two-day stretch, competing at both the UIW Cross Country Invitational on Friday and the Texas A&M Invitational on Saturday. With different athletes toeing the line each day, the Saints demonstrated resilience and progress as the season continues to build momentum.
Friday's action at the UIW Invitational saw Anthony Alaniz represent OLLU as the sole male competitor. Racing in a competitive four-mile field, Alaniz posted a time of 22:33, finishing 105th overall. His commitment to stepping up and competing solo highlighted the dedication of the Saints' roster, helping set the tone for the rest of the weekend.
Saturday brought a historic moment for the program at the Texas A&M Invitational, where Isai Moran delivered a record-breaking performance in the men's 8K. Moran crossed the line in 24:53, setting a new school record and eclipsing the previous mark held by none other than OLLU's current cross country coach, Jose Zarate. Moran's time placed him 31st in a highly competitive field featuring runners from all collegiate divisions, cementing his place among the top athletes in program history.
Damon Gutierrez also turned in a strong performance, finishing 57th with a time of 25:31. Joel Telles and Jose Perez followed with solid efforts of their own, placing 115th and 118th respectively, with times of 26:48 and 26:53. Each runner contributed to a weekend that not only showcased individual milestones but also reflected the depth and commitment of the team.
The back-to-back meets served as a valuable opportunity for the Saints to compete at a high level, test their endurance, and build experience against strong regional and national talent. As the season progresses, OLLU's men's cross country team continues to raise its standard, with performances like Moran's record-setting run offering a glimpse into the program's growing legacy.