In a strong showing at the SPAR European Cross Country Championships in Lagoa, Portugal, on December 14, 2025, University of Georgia freshmen and signees delivered standout performances. Kristers Kudlis, Anastasia Nilsson, Bertold Kalász, and Alex Lennon represented their home countries and boosted team efforts in the under-20 races.
Top Finishes for Georgia Athletes
Anastasia Nilsson led off for Georgia in the women’s under-20 race over 4,450 meters. She finished in 33rd place with a time of 15:56, scoring third for Sweden. Her effort helped Sweden secure a bronze medal with 44 team points.
Kristers Kudlis competed in the men’s under-20 event, also 4,450 meters. He placed 29th overall at 13:54, leading Latvia’s scorers. This marked a solid international debut for the Georgia freshman.
Bertold Kalász, a Georgia signee, ran 13:38 to take 17th place. He was Hungary’s top finisher in the race.
Alex Lennon, another signee, finished 15th with 13:37. His performance was the second-best for Great Britain and Northern Ireland, aiding their silver medal with 45 points.
Event Highlights and Broader Results
The championships drew 644 athletes from 36 federations, making it a competitive field. Italy’s Nadia Battocletti defended her title in the senior women’s race, while Spain topped the medal table with three golds.
Ireland celebrated a historic win with Nick Griggs taking gold in the men’s under-23 category. Great Britain and Northern Ireland earned multiple medals, including silver for Megan Keith in the senior women’s event.
Georgia’s athletes contributed to this global stage, showcasing talent that aligns with the university’s strong track and field program. Recent signings have bolstered the Bulldogs, with 21 new additions including sprinters, distance runners, and jumpers.
Here are key team medal standings from the event:
- Spain: 3 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze
- Italy: 2 gold, 1 silver, 2 bronze
- Great Britain and Northern Ireland: 1 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze
- Ireland: 1 gold, 1 bronze
- Sweden: 1 bronze (in under-20 women)
Impact on Georgia’s Program
These results build momentum for Georgia’s cross country team. The men’s squad recently finished 24th at the NCAA Championships on November 22, 2025, after earning a bid and four all-region honors.
Coach Caryl Smith Gilbert praised the international experience. It prepares athletes for college competitions, where Georgia has a history of success, like recent SEC titles in relays and individual events.
Looking ahead, these runners could strengthen Georgia’s lineup in upcoming meets. The program has produced Olympians and national champions, adding to its legacy.
Looking Forward to Future Competitions
International events like this highlight emerging talent. Georgia’s freshmen and signees gained valuable exposure, which may translate to strong showings in NCAA races.
Fans can follow updates on social media for more on the Bulldogs’ season. The team aims to build on this success in 2026.
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