MOUNT VERNON, Ga. - The Brewton-Parker Christian University Barons had four athletes compete in the NAIA Marathon in Dallas, Texas, on December 14, 2025. The Barons sent four runners from the Cross Country team to compete, and among over 4,000 runners, three finished in the top 250 despite challenging weather conditions. The race took place over a hilly course in 30-degree weather with strong wind gusts to add to the challenge.
The Barons sent Brandon Williams, Dylan Fletcher, Eric Smith, and Lillie Brown. All of the Barons runners completed the marathon in under 4.5 hours, a terrific feat of strength and endurance. Lillie Brown broke a school record for the women's time to finish the marathon with a time of 3:57.55.
Head Coach James Frank expressed his pride in his runners for their accomplishments, stating, "I am very proud of all of them. This is a tough, hilly course. It was freezing, literally, 30 degrees, and windy. They did not let that deter them. All of them ran with a lot of heart. They are all champions in my eyes!"
The marathon was a terrific way to wrap up the 2025 Cross Country season as the Barons go for Christmas break. Many of the runners will be competing in Track and Field in the New Year. The Barons men's team placed 8th among NAIA teams at the Marathon.
-30-
