ROMEOVILLE, Ill. The Concordia University Chicago (CUC) women's cross country team marked the start of their 2026 season on Friday at the Flyer Early Bird Invite. The Cougars competed in the 4000m, taking eighth place at the Invite.
 
The RUN-down
Stepping up for the Cougars was Danielle Giovenco (Hoffman Estates, Ill.), who finished 39th overall with a time of 18:41.2. Her performance set the place for the rest of the team. Following closely behind was a group of teammates, including Lydia Becker (Valparaiso, Ind.), in her first collegiate appearance, who finished with a time of 19:55.2. Sarah Redhage (Lowden, Iowa) recorded a time of 19:55.3, while Breanna Walters (Poplar Grove, Ill.) ran in a few minutes later with a time of 21:38.0. Lydia Anderson (Carpentersville, Ill.) capped off the top five with a time of 22:46.6.
 
Two more Cougars made their collegiate debuts. Gabrielle Vitto (Chicago, Ill.) and Mia Butler (Norridge, Ill.) both finished under the 28-minute mark with times of 27:46.7 and 27:47.3, respectively. 
 
What's Next
The Cougars will be back to compete in their next race on Saturday, September 19^th, when they travel to Warrenville, Ill. for 10:45 am start at the Gil Dodds Invite. Coverage for all things CUC Cross Country can be found at cucougars.com/coverage.