Aberdeen, S.D. - Northern State's Josh Martin (men's cross country) and Megan Pickering (women's cross country) are this week's South Dakota Army National Guard Athletes of the Week following their All-conference performances at the NSIC Championships.
 
Martin tallied the second all-conference honor of his career with a fourth place finish in Bismarck. The sophomore ran to an 8k personal best time of 24:35.60. His time is the fastest by any Northern State runner in over a decade, if not in program history. The placing rallied the men to a seventh place team finish.
 
Pickering landed on the NSIC All-Conference second team with her 17^th place finish. She crossed the 6k finish line with a personal best of 21:38.2. Her mark propelled the women to an eighth place finish overall.
 
About the SD Army National Guard
The National Guard dates back to 1636 when Citizen-Soldiers formed militias to defend their community and country. Since its formation, the Guard has stayed true to its roots. Enlisting in the National Guard means more time at home because your service in the South Dakota Army National Guard is part-time. Get a degree with money for school, learn job skills that translate to the civilian world, make bonds that last a lifetime, and earn a sense of pride that's everlasting. When you become a Guard Soldier, your family will thank you, your country will thank you, and your future will owe you. The South Dakota Army National Guard's goal is to direct future Soldiers toward life-changing opportunities by helping individuals and families become better today than yesterday. We transform citizens into Citizen-Soldiers that have Integrity, are Innovative, Proud, Courageous, Brave, and exemplify Unity and Honor. Learn more by visiting nationalguard.com/select-your-state/SD.