Memphis, TN. — The Christian Brothers University women's cross country team delivered a solid showing at the Gulf South Conference Championships on Saturday morning, finishing eighth overall in a competitive 12-team field.

Freshman Kaley Byrd led the Lady Buccaneers with a standout performance, clocking a personal-best time of 22:19.07 to finish 29th overall. Byrd's steady pacing and strong finish capped off an impressive rookie campaign, setting the tone for CBU's effort on the championship stage.

Close behind was fellow freshman Phoebe Steel, who also turned in a personal record of 22:33.42 to place 34th, giving the Lady Bucs a promising 1–2 combination for the future. Sophomore Lauren Blyth (23:40.66) and junior Annaggeliki Zannetou (23:43.28) ran nearly stride for stride, finishing 56th and 57th, respectively. Senior Danielle Booker rounded out the CBU scoring group in 80th place with a season-best 25:23.61, helping the Lady Bucs secure their top-10 team finish.

CBU finished with 222 points, edging Montevallo and matching West Alabama in a tightly contested mid-pack battle. Beyond the scoring five, Laura De Llano (26:17.53) and freshman Elen Skar (26:45.48) each posted personal bests, underscoring the team's depth and development throughout the season.

Head Coach Bill Hoffman praised the group's growth, particularly the leadership from upperclassmen paired with the immediate impact of the freshmen.

"We went out aggressive for the first half of the race on our home turf. Kaley and Phoebe took control and battled with the top runners in the GSC. Women ran with the Buc pride and determination. A respectable finish in a very competitive conference."

With three freshmen among the team's top five, the Lady Buccaneers' performance at the GSC Championships marked an encouraging step forward for a program building momentum.