KENOSHA -  The Carthage women's cross country team kicked off the 2025 season Friday evening at the Vic Godfrey Open, grinding through a challenging 4,000-meter course. The Firebirds pushed past rugged terrain to deliver strong early-season performances and set the tone for the fall.


 
The Firebirds came in fourth place with 131 points.

Winona State won the meet with 35 points, scoring all five runners in the top 15. 



Jessie Pakaski and Kylie Florance set the pace for Carthage, finishing side by side in 27th and 28th place. Pakaski crossed in 15:39.54 with Florance just steps behind at 15:40.41. Camryn Lau followed with a strong 37th place showing in 15:59.85, while Natalie Forward secured 43rd at 16:18.15. Kaitlyn Jerbi rounded out the Firebirds' lineup, clocking 16:40.20 for a 52nd place finish.


The Firebirds return to action on Saturday, September 13, as the squad is set to run in Mequon, Wis., at the Ken Weidt Classic, hosted by Concordia Wisconsin. For more information, visit athletics.carthage.edu.