Academy of Art University Athletics

A truly dominant performance at Cal State San Marcos' Cougar Challenge on Sept. 28 was delivered by Academy of Art cross country's Grace Southern as she paced 157 total competitors, taking first overall. Never relinquishing her hold on the top spot for the duration of the 6k race, Southern ended more than two seconds ahead of the next closest finisher with a time of 21:07.2. The only faster time of her career was the program record 20:58.6 she ran in the 2023 Cougar Challenge on Sept. 23, 2023.

"This is my first NCAA cross country win which is something I've been wanting since last season," Southern said. "Taking the lead early on with confidence was a big step for me, as I've always been too hesitant to do that. The only piece I was missing today was the time but that will come. The most important thing is I am healthy and hungry and looking forward to championship season."