The Virginia Union University women's cross-country team finished fifth at the CNU XC Invitational on Friday, September 18, at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Va.

The Lady Panthers competed in the women's 6,000-meter race as they continued their preparation for the remainder of the 2026 cross country season. Official meet results are provided by CNU TFXC.

VUU head coach Franck Charles said he was not satisfied with the team's performance but remains confident in the Panthers' ability to improve.

"I wasn't pleased with our team effort at all. I know how hard we train, and I know we are capable of much more. We have to figure this out and make the necessary adjustments."

Charles said the Panthers will use the performance as motivation moving forward.

"Our next meet will be better. Moving forward, we will regroup, refocus, and get back to work. We will be okay, but we have to trust the process and continue pushing each other."

The Panthers will now turn their attention to their next competition as they continue working toward the CIAA Championship Meet.

"We have more in us. Let's get back to work!"

VUU will now compete in the HBCU XC Challenge, hosted by Virginia State University, on Friday, October 2, in Petersburg, Va.