October 24- The Salem College Cross Country Team has accepted an invitation to compete in the Association of Division III Independents Cross Country Championships. The meet will be held on Saturday, October 28, in Bennington, Vermont with Southern Vermont College being the host school. The actual 5000 meter course will be at Willow Park in Bennington, Vermont.

In just its second year of being a provisional NCAA member, the Spirits of Salem College have rose to be the top Division III women’s cross country program in the state of North Carolina. Rachel Fichthorn (So., Nokesville, VA) and Lauren Meek (Fr., Draper, VA) are the #1 & #2 Division III runners in the state. Fichthorn has been the team’s top runner all year with Meek right on her heels. Despite being a small team of only seven members, the harriers are very close-knit and continue to improve almost daily. It’s a unique group made up with a 39 year-old senior, a senior who is student-teaching at the same time as this season, three first year students, and a sophomore who holds school records in both cross country and swimming. The seven runners have finished as the top NCAA Division III team in 4 meets and second twice.

“We are very proud to represent Salem College in their first championship race in school history,” said Coach Widner. “Because we are still a provisional NCAA team for another year, competing in this championship race is the best we can do as a team. Our team looks forward to making Salem College proud as we represent them in Vermont.”