CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa ---The Bethel Men's Cross Country Team once again ran under the National Christian College Athletic Assoication's Qualifying Time on Saturday afternoon at Mount Mercy. 

The Pilots placed 18th out of 23 teams, placing behind Southwestern Community College, and ahead of Coe.

Elijah Poorman recorded his first race of the season, finishing the 8k with a time of 28:49.8. The junior averaged a a 5:48 mile and finished 154th out of 259 runners who placed. 

Sophomore Devyn Clements placed the highest for Bethel, taking 146th with a time of 28:30.8. 

Head Coach Ryan Sommers shared, "Very encouraged by the team's performances today.  They bought in and utilized the race plan well today.  Effort and attitude continues to be very positive.  We are ahead of schedule for this point in the season.  Excited for our home meet this next week."

Bethel's home meet on Friday, Oct. 10th will be held at St. Patrick's County Park at 2:30 PM. 

For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, check out bupilots.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X by searching @bupilots or #TheRightWayToPlay.