From setting records already to winning events, UNA Cross Country is poised for a historic season. The Lions kicked off their season with a season opener held at McFarland Park in Florence, Ala., competing against the University of Alabama.

Evan Allen has been ASUN runner of the week multiple times so far, set the time record for running–which was last broken in 1984–and led the team to their win this past Saturday. He placed first individually at the UNA Invitational at McFarland Park. Allen is expected to be an asset to the Lions when it comes to winning races.

Allen has a history of leading the Lions to victory. Last year, he ran an 8k with a time of 24:15 at UNA’s 2021 Invitational. 

According to roarlions.com, Allen ran with a time of 24:19.55, followed up by Fredrick Kipyego in fourth place, Brandon Lee in fifth, James Hibbard in sixth, and Connor Jackson in 11th.

The Lions ran at the North Alabama Showcase in Huntsville, Ala., at John Hunt Park Friday, Sept. 16 at 7:30 am. Thirty-seven collegiate teams competed in this competition for the men’s 8k event, with 44 women’s collegiate teams running a 5K. 

825 runners took part in this showcase and awards were given out following the race at 9:15 at the park entrance. Universities like Alabama, Auburn, Georgia and Troy competed. Allen placed 23rd with a time of 24:11.73 minutes in the men’s 8K. Victor Kiprop of Alabama placed first with a time of 23:18.30 minutes. 

 Following this, the Lions have a competition at Louisville Classic in Louisville, Ky., then the Blazer Classic in Birmingham, Ala.

These two follow-up games lead to the ASUN conference championships in Huntsville, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 29, and the NCAA South Region Championship on Friday, Nov. 11 in Huntsville, Ala.