DECATUR, Ill. – The Chicago State women's triathlon team continued its fall campaign on Saturday, competing in the Millikin Splash and Dash, a 500-meter swim and 2-mile run event that featured several established programs from across the region.
The Cougars earned 17 team points, highlighted by strong individual efforts from
Melaika Russell, who led Chicago State with a time of
26:57, placing among the top half of the field.
Jasmine Cruz and
Jalyn Long rounded out the Cougars' lineup, clocking in at
34:24 and
38:34, respectively, as the squad showed steady improvement and competitive drive throughout the race.
The event featured teams from Northern Kentucky, Millikin, Roberts Wesleyan, Concordia Wisconsin, and Coe, giving the young Cougar program another valuable opportunity to gain experience against deep and seasoned competition.
Head Coach Maurice Wills praised the team's progress and effort, noting that the athletes continue to build confidence and endurance with each race.
Chicago State will return to action later this fall as it continues to develop in its second season of competition, with sights set on continued improvement heading into the postseason stretch.