KELOWNA, B.C. - UBC Okanagan cross country runner Lauren McNeil was named the Canada West cross country athlete of the week on by the conference on Tuesday afternoon after winning the individual gold medal at the 2024 U SPORTS Championships and leading the Heat to a sixth-place finish.

McNeil, a native of Buxton, England, takes home the recognition for the second time this season, and third time overall in her career. Her recognition also gives the Heat eight Canada West athletes of the week this season.

Women's Cross Country - Lauren McNeil (UBC Okanagan)
Nov. 9: 1st Place at U SPORTS championship, 8km time of 26:31 (new course record)

McNeil won the first individual U SPORTS gold medal in UBCO Heat history on Saturday as she won the 2024 U SPORTS Cross Country Championships at Mission Recreation Park.

McNeil shattered the course record of 28:31 from the 2023 Canada West Championships, posting a time of 26:31 to beat Trinity Western's Constance Nankivell by 11 seconds to claim gold.

As a result of her victory, McNeil was also named the U SPORTS Outstanding Athlete of the Year as well as a U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian.