COLUMBIA, Mo. — Florida showed up in the “Show Me” State on Friday, as the women’s team captured first place in the Gans Creek Classic gold race while the men finished 23rd.

The Gators secured two standout debuts, with Judy Chepkoech and Kelvin Cheruiyot crossing the line first for Florida in their respective races.

The women opened the meet in the 6k gold race, which saw the top 22 runners surpass the course record of 19:50.1. Florida placed four runners in the top ten in Judy Chepkoech (7), Tia Wilson (8), Hilda Olemomoi (9) and Desma Chepkoech (10). Caroline Wells (68) and Beth Morley (77) rounded out the scoring, giving the Gators 102 points to clinch the team title.

On the men’s side, Cheruiyot led Florida in his NCAA debut with a 23:02.1 finish in the 8k, placing 16th overall. Sophomores Jonathan Leon and Josh Ruiz followed, finishing 114th and 115th. Graham Myers (194) and Riley Novack (201) completed the Gators’ scoring five, securing 23rd place overall.

In the women’s black race, Florida did not register a team score after competing in the Gold division, however, Breanna Stuart (45th), Kate Drummond (85th) and Ashley Fitzgerald (148th) each saw action in the 6k.

The Gators find their way back to the Gans Creek course for pre-nationals on Oct. 18.

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