San Bernardino Valley College's women's cross country team put in a strong effort Friday morning, as the team posted a fifth place finish at the Golden West Invitational held at Huntington Beach Central Park on Friday.

Freshman Diana Bautista continued the strong start to her 2021 season, finishing second on the 5K course with a time of 20 minutes, 17.22 seconds, less than two seconds behind the winner, Olivia Knobbe of Saddleback College.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Wolverines' contingent finished stronger, improving on their results from the opening race at Cal State San Bernardino. Sashi Torres crossed the line 38th in a time of 24:49.58, with teammate Lenea Gomez not far behind at 25:06.77 for 41st. Noemi Velasquez clocked in at 25:42.71 for 45th and Litzy Sales was 48th at 26:04.69.

"Our runners ran better on a tougher course than we did two weeks ago," coach Eric Abrams said. "I am very proud of these ladies after an impressive race, that will move us forward with much more confidence as a team."