The Talladega College Women's Cross Country team made history this weekend, capturing the 2025 HBCUAC Cross Country Championship title—the first cross country championship in school history.
Competing in the 6000-meter race, the Lady Tornadoes dominated the field, finishing with a team score of 24 points and placing all runners within the top 18 finishers. Their remarkable performance was highlighted by personal bests across the board.
Leading the charge was
Jewel Cross, who claimed first place with a time of 25:27.36, setting a new personal record and solidifying her position as one of the top runners in the conference.
Lauren Henderson followed with a 4th-place finish (26:25.24), while Mary Rodriguez took 6th (27:51.86).
Lamoy Duffus placed 8th (28:27.90),
Aliana Taylor finished 9th (28:36.65),
Sasha Ferguson earned 11th (29:04.93), and
Sarah Abram rounded out the Talladega lineup with a strong 31:41.72 finish.
Their collective effort not only secured the championship but also etched their names into Talladega College history as the first cross country team to win a conference title.
Head Coach Terry Gaitor was named the Women's Cross Country Head Coach of the Year, while Assistant Coach Kerri McCarter earned Women's Assistant Coach of the Year honors.
Coach Gaitor shared his heartfelt gratitude following the victory:
"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead these young ladies to history and being legendary! To be named Coach of the Year means the world to me, but I have to be honest—I have to grant that title to Coach Tre Adderley, who does so much behind the scenes to assist in any way that he can. I am very proud of how we showed up today. We did what Tornadoes do."
Coach Tre Adderley reflected on the team's growth and foundation for success:
"Before a tree bears fruit, a seed must be planted. The coaching staff planted the seeds in each of our athletes and gave them the necessary training, treatment, and coaching to reach this milestone. I am proud of this group and looking forward to carrying this energy into our indoor and outdoor track seasons."
Assistant Coach Kerri McCarter echoed those sentiments, expressing deep appreciation for the opportunity to be part of the program:
"This season has been an absolute honor. My deepest gratitude goes to Coach Gaitor and Coach Tre for the opportunity to join this championship program. Coach Tre's masterful strategy and vision were the blueprint for our success; he built the season that set us up to be champions. Talladega Tornado athletes—you are a truly fabulous group to work with. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms and for the respect and kindness you've shown. You didn't just participate; you bought into the program, put in the work, and the result is a championship. I am profoundly proud of each and every one of our men's and women's runners."
The Lady Tornadoes' performance sets a new standard for excellence in Talladega College Athletics. With their sights now set on the upcoming indoor and outdoor track seasons, the Tornadoes look to continue their championship momentum.
Go Tornadoes!
