LYNCHBURG, Tenn. — Motlow State’s first-year cross-country program will compete at the 2026 NJCAA Cross Country National Championships on Saturday, Nov. 14, at John Hunt Park in Huntsville, Alabama.

The national appearance follows a season of steady improvement for the Motlow State Bucks. After finishing last in their opening meet, Motlow State progressed to finishing ahead of several teams in its final meet before regionals. Every Motlow State runner recorded a personal-best time at the regional meet.

“What a season it has been for our program,” said head cross country coach Bradley Makuvire. “Taking on a new program comes with its fair share of tough challenges, but this group of student-athletes has blown past every expectation. They show up day in and day out, and they truly understand the culture we are trying to build here.”

Makuvire credited the runners’ work ethic and commitment to one another for the program’s progress.

“They might not be the fastest kids on paper nationally, but they are some of the hardest-working individuals I have ever known,” he said. “They push each other every single day, and they will do everything they can to move this team forward.”

Motlow State Athletic Director Ross Fanning said the national appearance marks a meaningful achievement for the new program.

“To see this program reach nationals in its first year is something special,” Fanning said. “These student-athletes have set a strong foundation through their hard work and commitment, and we’re proud to have them representing Motlow on the national stage.”

As the Bucks prepare for nationals, Makuvire sees this season as the beginning of the program’s growth.

“I am incredibly proud of these kids, proud of what we’re building, and even more excited for the future,” he said.