Morgan Nokes delivered a head-turner performance at the NCAA Regional Cross-Country Championships. The Utah Valley University standout powered through the Mountain Regional course to finish 7th with a blazing 20:13.0 – this secured her ticket to the Nationals in Columbia, Missouri. But why is her performance drawing so much attention despite not landing on the podium?

The answer lies in her journey off the course. Just eight months ago, Nokes gave birth to her son, Theo. Balancing motherhood with elite competition is no small feat, yet she is navigating both roles with remarkable finesse. That’s why the video of her wearing her Mountain Regional finisher’s medal while holding her baby captured so many hearts. On top of that, she was named WAC Female Athlete of the Year earlier this season

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