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Three members of the Women’s Cross Country Team Finish in the Top 10 of Beach to Tarmac 7K
Posted: Sep 29, 2025

Three members of the Women’s Cross Country Team Finish in the Top 10 of Beach to Tarmac 7K

ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS, September 29, 2025 – Three student-athletes from the women's cross country team at the University of the Virgin Islands secured positions in the top 10 of the women's division during the Beach to Tarmac 7K held on Saturday, September 27, in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

The Lady Buccaneers competed without their leading runner, Ariana Renault, a hopeful for the Historically Black College and University Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) All-Conference, who was unable to participate due to an injury. In Renault's absence, the team relied on a few newcomers to step up and guide them.

"Losing Ariana was a tough blow for the team, and we may be without her for an extended period of time," said Head Coach Dale Joseph. "Nevertheless, I believe this presents an excellent opportunity for another runner to rise to the occasion and lead the team. I was satisfied with the performances from the women who were able to run the course, especially the two exceptional performances from our newcomers!"

Sophomore Abigail Pruitt, in just her second career meet, was the standout for the Lady Buccaneers, being the first from her team to finish the race. Pruitt clocked in at 40:37.1, securing fourth place overall. The native of Alaska just missed out on a medal, finishing 18 seconds behind the third-place competitor.

Junior Natalie Williams made her debut in cross country for the Buccaneers, joining her teammate Renault as a dual-sport collegiate athlete, as she also plays for the women's basketball team. Williams finished in seventh place with a time of 43:00.7.

Junior Gabrielle Quetel rounded out the top 10, while senior Aisha Sabur and sophomore Ruby Brahene finished in 19th and 23rd places, respectively.

Looking ahead, the women's cross-country team will head to Tortola, British Virgin Islands, to compete in the BVI College Classic on October 4, before focusing on the HBCUAC Cross Country Championships in Decatur, Alabama, on October 17.