NORTHFIELD, MINN. -- Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology senior Rachel Krasich (Westfield, Ind.) finished in the top half of the NCAA Division III Women's Cross Country National Championships on Saturday afternoon at St. Olaf College.

Krasich placed 138th of the nation's top 280 runners at the NCAA Division III level, completing the six-kilometer course in a time of 23:15.

Weather conditions plagued the entire field in the effort, as the temperature plummeted into the 30s with snow and wind affecting the meet.

"It was a very challenging course and a great experience for Rachel to make the nationals.  She had a pretty good effort on a cold, snowy day in Minnesota," said head coach Matt Cole.

Krasich earned the first national championship appearance in the history of women's athletics at the college with her 11th place finish at last weekend's NCAA Division III Regional at Calvin College.

The Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference was well represented at the meet, as Gwen Kemple of Anderson captured All-American honors with a 33rd-place finish.  Emily Cochard of Hanover also placed 155th.