The women’s cross country team is currently defending its titles from 2009 and 2010 as the top team in the SEC.
Believe it or not, Florida may be stronger in 2011 with the recent addition of a community college transfer.
In her first race as a Gator, Florence N’Getich came out on top in a two-mile run to the finish. With a finished time of 11:02.7, it’s obvious she’s going to be a major contributor this year for an already talented Florida roster.
N’Getich helped the UF women’s cross country team to a first place finish at the Western Carolina Invitational – the Gators dominated placing eight runners in the top 10 in the two-mile run.
Although the Kenya native won the race, she says she’s still adjusting to the area.
“The climate was different,” she said. “It was hot, but the race was really good.”
She transferred over from El Paso Community College in Texas, so she’s accustomed to high temperatures. But N’Getich says it’s a different type of heat here in the Southeast.
“The weather in Texas was hot and dry,” she said. “Here it’s kind of humid.”
The weather obviously didn’t affect her performance. She says it was a challenge at first, but now she’s moving forward with her climate change.
Coming to the United States from across the world can also be a challenge.
Lucky for N’Getich, her second place finisher and teammate is also from the other side of the globe as Genevieve LaCaze is from Australia entering her senior season representing the Orange and Blue.
N’Getich said having fellow Gators from all over is an interesting aspect of the team.
“We socialize together and share ideas from different parts of the world,” she said. “It’s great.”
That’s not all that has changed for Florence. Her new school is also something she’s still trying to adapt to. Being a double major in Nursing and Criminology, N’Getich has a completely different schedule here in Gainesville.
“I’m getting adjusted to a different way of life and class,” she said.
Along with getting a top notch education, the junior believes the University of Florida will help her pursue cross country after college – that’s why she transferred to UF.
“I felt that Florida was the best place for me because they noticed my talent,” she said. “I think they can help my career in running. My goals are to go to nationals.”
If Florence keeps winning races, she may help bring another SEC Championship to the Gator trophy case.