The Xavier Gators returned to Arizona with great confidence after their strong performance in California two weeks prior.
The Desert Twilight Cross Country Festival is Arizona’s largest and most unique cross country meet. Raced under the lights on a flat and fast course. Desert Twilight attracts schools from across the nation. This year there was a big presence of schools from Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. The same course will be used in a few weeks for the Nike Southwest qualifier.
Shannon again ran in a Sweepstakes race which had 21 teams and 152 girls. Shannon again showed good form and strength. Shannon finished 22 overall, was the 2nd Gator in and had 41 second PR! The Gators finished second.
Shannon’s time on the 5K course was a 18:12.67. Full results.
Warming up.Shaking out the legs
On the starting line receiving instructions.
Shannon’s biggest fan. Heading to the other side of the course for the start.
And yet more instructions.
And they are off. 
Shortly after the start and near the front.
Early in the race with teammate Jane Miller.
Moving up through the pack.
Heading to the finishing straight.
Bringing it home. 
With their hardware. Xavier took 2nd. Well done!