LAKELAND, Fla. – The Valdosta State cross country teams wrapped up their 2025 campaign Saturday morning at the NCAA Division II South Regional Championships, hosted at Holloway Park in Lakeland, Florida. The meet featured the region's top programs with team and individual berths to the NCAA National Championships on the line.
The Lady Blazers battled through warm and sunny conditions in the early race, finishing 17th overall in a deep 20-team field. Fresh off a strong showing at the Gulf South Conference Championships, Valdosta State posted a total team time of 2:07:00 with an average split of 25:24.
Palm Beach Atlantic edged Lee University by a single point, 76-77, for the regional title, while Tampa and Mississippi College followed closely behind. The competition highlighted the strength of the South Region, which continues to feature nationally ranked programs from both the Sunshine State and Gulf South Conferences.
Valdosta State's runners competed with grit on the challenging Holloway Park course, known for its rolling terrain and open exposure. The Blazers maintained consistent pacing throughout the 6K and closed their fall campaign showing measurable improvement in pack running and race execution.
In the men's race, Valdosta State placed 17th overall with a team total of 3:06:21 and an average time of 37:17. The Blazers faced stiff competition from powerhouse programs as Lee University continued its South Region dominance, capturing the men's title with a score of 24 points and an impressive team total of 2:38:51. Florida Southern (53) and Embry-Riddle (110) rounded out the top three.
Racing under clear skies and 71-degree temperatures, the Blazers battled through the 10-kilometer distance with steady splits across their scoring five. The men's effort capped off a fall season marked by development, leadership, and a renewed focus on building toward future success in the Gulf South Conference.
The 2025 campaign proved to be one of steady progress and resilience for the Blazers. Competing against some of the strongest programs in the South Region, Valdosta State continued to build momentum while establishing a foundation for long-term success. With key returners gaining championship experience and a culture rooted in hard work and togetherness, the Blazers leave Holloway Park with pride in their journey and motivation to climb even higher next fall.
Stay up to date on all Blazer news by following @VState_Blazers on Instagram and X and by liking the "Valdosta State Blazers" Facebook page. The Blazer Athletics Mobile App is available on iTunes and Android featuring exclusive content, the latest news and updates, schedules, rosters, game day notifications, and more.
