MSU-Northern harriers race for a Frontier title

The Montana State University-Northern cross country teams are making their second trip to Lewiston, Idaho, this season. Only this time, it's for all the marbles.

The Lights and Skylights are headed to Lewiston for the annual Frontier Conference Championships, where berths in the NAIA National Championships in Vancouver, Washington, will be on the line.

For Northern and head coach Chad Spangler winning a Frontier title, or qualifying for the NAIA's is a bit of a longshot, given the program is still in its infancy. But unlike the last two seasons, Northern is fully stocked to compete with the top teams in the Frontier.

On the women's side, the Skylights have two runners who can certainly contend for All-Conference honors. Freshman Ashley McCready has been turning in Northern's top times all fall, while sophomore Rachel David has been another standout.

The Skylights also have a strong pack this season, especially with the addition of freshman Nicole Parsons. Parsons has been running strong for the Skylights since her first meet. MSU-N also has a host of veteran runners in McKenna Barkus, Courtney Cota and Breck Don, all of whom have competed at the Frontier Championships before.

Northern's young men's team could also surprise some people in Idaho as well. The Lights have a legitimate All-Conference contender in freshman Luke Karnauskas, who has been turning in strong performances all season. Amos Taiswah as been running at the front of the pack as well, while veterans Riley Dennis and Beau Hyatt have been consistent. Northern's young runners, in Kai Krumweide and Gabe Hallock will also gain valuable experience this weekend.

As for the Frontier itself, host Lewis-Clark State has been strong all season, as has Rocky Mountain College. Carroll College also has some standout runners and those three teams are likely the top contenders in both the women's and men's races.

The Frontier Championships will be held Friday afternoon in Lewiston, Idaho on the campus of Lewis-Clark State.