In the final cross-country race of her high school career, Belmont native Ellie Shea didn’t disappoint against the world’s best in Belgrade, Serbia. The 18-year-old senior, who competes for Emerging Elites, placed 15th at Saturday’s World U20 Cross-Country Championships with a time of 20 minutes, 50 seconds for the six-kilometer course.
Shea was the top American in the race, which had 80 finishers. Taking 16th overall in 21:08 was Virginia’s Allie Zealand, who a few weeks ago won the two mile at the New Balance Nationals with a meet record of 9:47.57.
Shea’s effort was her second top 15 finish in as many years. She was tenth at in 2023 with a time of 20:48. After competing in just a limited number of races during the indoor season, Shea is now preparing for the outdoor campaign.
“I am kind of using this (race) as a stepping stone to have a really strong outdoor season,” she told Let’s Run. “I’m excited for the outdoor season. I just want to get back on the track. “
