Junior Amy Wilfert claimed the first cross country victory of her collegiate career on Saturday at the Trinity Invitational. For her efforts, she garnered the season's inaugural NESCAC Performer of the Week award.
Wilfert ran the shortened four-kilometer course in 15:56, which translates to an exceptional 5:54-mile pace, and crossed the finish line 16 seconds ahead of her nearest competitor in the 100-runner field. Thanks to her efforts, the Jumbos managed a second-place finish out of nine teams, twelve points behind The College of New Jersey. The race marked the third consecutive year in which a Tufts runner took home the individual title.
Wilfert has replaced injured classmate Steph McNamara as the team's top runner and is emerging as one of the region's best. Last season, McNamara was the only Jumbo to win Performer of the Week, which came as a result of her victory in the Trinity Invitational as well.
Despite being overshadowed by McNamara last season, Wilfert, as a strong No. 2 runner, was integral to the team's success. After finishing 11th at the conference championship and 14th in the regional competition, she earned a trip to nationals, where she placed 48th. With a first-place finish already in the bag this season, she will next look to lead the Jumbos at the Conn. College Invitational on Sept. 26 and the All-New England Championship on Oct. 10.
