Wade Patten captured his first-career Heart Cross Country Runner of the Week honor, announced on Labor Day, following an impressive collegiate debut at the 11th Annual Prairie Stars Invitational hosted by the University of Illinois Springfield.

Patten made an immediate impact in his inaugural race, crossing the finish line in 15:53 to win the men's 5K. His time placed him first among a field of 88 runners and earned him recognition from the Heart of America Athletic Conference.

Patten and the Spartans will have a week off from competition before returning to action at the SIUE Cougar Challenge on Friday, September 18, hosted by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.