VANCOUVER, Wash. - The Clark College Penguins cross country team began their 2025 season at the Lewis and Clark Opener on Friday morning at Milo McIver State Park in Estacada, Oregon.  With a race field that included 14 teams, including four NCAA Division I programs and 12 four-year colleges, it was tough competition for Clark. Both the men and women ran well in their five kilometer races and started the season off strong.

The men placed tenth overall and were led by freshman Dekota Houfek. Houfek ran 16:33 to place 43^rd overall out of over 100 runners. The newcomer was not intimidated by his first college race and went out fast with the leaders. On the quick start, Houfek said, "I feel like it was the right move for me, honestly, getting out in front of everyone. Going around those narrow curves was a lot better being in the front." Penguin head coach Scott Cook admitted that starting fast wasn't exactly the race plan for Houfek, but still Cook was impressed with the debut from his top runner. "Dekota put in a great effort," said Cook. "He really locked in and was able to be competitive throughout the race."

Fellow freshman Tate Armstrong also put in a great first effort for Clark and finished 61^st overall. His time of 16:54 was the sixth fastest time by a two-year college runner at the event. Rounding out the Penguin top five were Liam DeViney, Benjamin Carter, and Evan Hollis. Overall, Coach Cook was happy with the group's performance. "The men's team came in with a plan to just kind of get our feet wet and remember how to race cross country again," Cook explained. "The way I coach cross country is that it's not about times, it's about placement, and we're focused on getting ready for the NWAC Championships and running the 8K in the future."
 
The women had a great day themselves, with each of their four runners completing their first college race. "The women ran well," said assistant coach Sarah Coon. "They pushed that last two kilometers really hard, and each had their own fights during the race. It was great!"

Mariposa Perez led the women in 102^nd place overall, and the freshman felt pretty good about her race afterwards. "It was a great race for an opener, explained Perez. "I am excited to see where I go for the rest of the season." Another athlete who stood out was Myah Manzano, who finished just one spot behind Perez. Coach Coon liked what she saw from Manzano throughout the race. "Myah was a standout today. She did what we asked and really pushed it at the end." Nayeli Vergara and Nico Field completed the Penguin group on the day and finished ahead of several runners from four-year colleges, which is a good sign of things to come this season.

Next up, Clark heads to The Mike Johnson Classic at Western Oregon University to take on another loaded field of teams onSeptember 27^th. 

---

For the latest news and results, follow Clark Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or sign up for our e-newsletter to stay up to date with the latest happenings!