Freshman distance runner Ashley Tutt placed sixth in the 2018 North America, Central America and Caribbean Cross Country Championship on Saturday, according to an NIU media services press release. Tutt was the first to finish from team USA with a time of 21:10.0.

“I am so proud of her and what she’s been able to accomplish,” said NIU head cross country coach Adrian Myers. “What’s more enjoyable is the idea that we are not even through her freshman year yet.”

Team USA took second overall to Canada, who placed first through third, fifth and ninth.

“You couldn’t ask more of Ash, as she always gives it,” said Myers. “I’m just glad she gained this international experience, which will develop her into an elite collegian in the years to come. I look forward to getting her back on campus and hearing more about her time in El Salvador!”

Tutt will now join her team to finish the indoor track and field season by participating in the 3,000-meter and the 5,000-meter runs next weekend in Bowling Green, Ohio, for the Mid-American Conference Indoor Championships.