Annapolis, Md. – Sophomore Lilly Norcross delivered a standout performance on Saturday, finishing fifth among a field of 43 runners to lead the UMBC's women's cross country team at the 2026 Cantello Invitational at the U.S. Naval Academy course.

UMBC finished third overall out of four competing squads, accumulating 65 points, thanks to three Retrievers earning spots in the top 20. Navy dominated the 6K race with a winning total of 27 points, while George Washington took second place with 43 points. The Retrievers finished comfortably ahead of  local rival Loyola, who finished with 102 points.

Norcross's outstanding effort resulted in a new personal best, crossing the finish line in 22:16.5, an impressive improvement over her previous year's time of 23:41.8 at the same meet.

Senior Lyna Beraich made a notable return to competition after redshirting the 2025 season, emerging as UMBC's second-fastest runner. She clocked a time of 22:59.0, earning an 18th-place finish.

Junior Katie Schwaner closely followed Beraich, securing 19th place with a strong time of 22:59.4, highlighting the Retrievers' depth in the middle of the pack.

Senior Katelyn Deal (28th, 23:31.6), sophomore Maddie Wassin, freshman Alyssa Mattes (32^nd, 23:44.1), and sophomore Emily Mitroka (37^th, 24:25.3) rounded out the Retrievers' scoring, each contributing to the team's solid finish.

UMBC will compete at the Paul Short Invitational at Lehigh on October 2.