Chiang Leads FSCJ Women to Podium Finish at One of Florida’s Toughest Courses
Daytona Beach, FL — The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) women's cross country team delivered an impressive performance on Saturday, earning a 3rd place team finish at the Embry-Riddle XC Invitational—widely regarded as one of Florida's most challenging courses.
The Invitational hosted 19 teams across NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA divisions, showcasing a diverse and competitive field of athletes.
Mei Chiang led the Manta Rays with a standout effort, placing 4th overall in a highly competitive field. Her performance earned her FCSAA Runner of the Week honors for the third consecutive week, further cementing her status as one of the top runners in the region.
Chiang was supported by strong runs from Sydney Fallin, Ellie Cardozo, Ava Banks, Lauren Hughes, and Krista Lovely, all of whom tackled the rugged, hilly 5,000-meter course with grit and determination. The women's team finished ahead of regional rivals South Florida State College and Lake-Sumter State College, reinforcing their position as a top NJCAA Region 8 contender.
"Mei continues to race up front every weekend against very tough competition. We think she's in a great place to do well at the upcoming championship meets," said Head Coach Jody Hale.
On the men's side, Team Captain Cole Fleming showed significant progress, shaving nearly a minute off his time from last season on the same course. He was followed by consistent efforts from Ben Hale, Aiden Taggart, Edward Julian, Noah Blake Looney, David Beasley, and Spencer Middleton. The men's team finished 8th overall in the competitive 8,000-meter race.
The Manta Rays will return to action at the Brewton-Parker Cross Country Invitational in Mount Vernon, Georgia, on September 26.
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