October 16, 2025

Mark Jensen Sets New 5,000-Meter Record at Championships

Omaha, NE, October 16, 2025

Creighton University’s junior distance runner Mark Jensen achieved a remarkable feat by breaking the school’s 5,000-meter record at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships. His time of 14:12.45 not only secured him first place but also showcased the growing strength of Creighton’s cross country program. The men’s team finished third overall, while sophomore Elena Ruiz contributed to the success with a second-place finish in the women’s 5K event. As the team prepares for the upcoming regional meet, Jensen’s achievement sets a new standard for future athletes.

Omaha, NE

In a standout performance at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships on October 15, 2025, Creighton University’s junior distance runner Mark Jensen broke the school’s 5,000-meter record with a time of 14:12.45. This achievement not only earned him first place but also highlighted the rising competitiveness of the Bluejays’ cross country program. Jensen’s time improved upon his personal best by nearly 20 seconds, contributing to Creighton’s third-place finish in the team standings.

The event took place near Platte River State Park, where ideal conditions allowed for several strong showings across the board. Jensen’s victory underscored his rapid development as a key athlete for Creighton, building on consistent training efforts throughout the season. His performance set a new benchmark for future runners in the program, emphasizing endurance and strategic pacing over the demanding course.

Team Success and Individual Highlights

Creighton’s men’s team secured third place overall, a solid result that reflects the depth of their roster. Beyond Jensen’s record-breaking run, other teammates provided crucial support to maintain the team’s position among top conference contenders. In the women’s division, sophomore Elena Ruiz claimed second place in the 5K event, further bolstering the Bluejays’ standing. Ruiz’s finish demonstrated the women’s team’s resilience, as they navigated challenging terrain to post competitive times.

The championships featured intense competition from multiple Missouri Valley Conference schools, with Creighton’s combined efforts in both genders positioning them favorably. This balanced success in the men’s and women’s races has created momentum heading into the upcoming regional meet in two weeks. A strong regional showing could propel the team toward a national qualifying spot, an important step in the cross country season.

Preparation for Regionals and Broader Impact

With the regional meet approaching, Creighton’s coaching staff now focuses on refining strategies based on these championship results. Jensen’s record and Ruiz’s podium finish provide a foundation for targeted training, aiming to peak at the right moment. The team’s third-place team finish offers valuable insights into areas for improvement, such as pack running and hill endurance, which will be critical in regional competition.

The event’s location near Platte River State Park drew attention from the local running community, fostering a sense of regional pride. Coverage of the race reached a wide audience, showcasing the trails as a venue for high-level collegiate athletics. Jensen’s accomplishment serves as a catalyst for aspiring runners in Omaha and across Nebraska, illustrating the potential for growth in local programs.

Context of Creighton’s Cross Country Program

Creighton University, located in Omaha, has steadily built its cross country program within the Missouri Valley Conference. The championships represent a midpoint in the season, where individual and team goals align to prepare for postseason opportunities. Jensen’s progression from previous seasons highlights the effectiveness of the university’s training regimen, which emphasizes both speed work and long-distance stamina.

Ruiz’s performance adds to the narrative of emerging talent on the women’s side, where consistency has been a focus. The Bluejays’ third-place finish builds on prior conference results, indicating a trajectory toward greater success. As the team looks ahead, these achievements reinforce Creighton’s role in Nebraska’s collegiate athletics landscape, inspiring participation at the high school and club levels.

The Missouri Valley Conference Championships provided a platform for athletes to test themselves against regional rivals, with Creighton’s results standing out amid a field of dedicated competitors. Jensen’s record time of 14:12.45 remains a highlight, symbolizing dedication and potential. As preparations intensify for regionals, the Bluejays carry forward this momentum, ready to compete on a larger stage.

Omaha’s supportive environment for distance running continues to play a role in such successes, with community trails and events contributing to athlete development. Creighton’s strong showings in both divisions affirm their commitment to excellence, setting expectations high for the remainder of the season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What record did Mark Jensen break at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships?

Creighton University’s junior distance runner Mark Jensen broke the school’s 5,000-meter record with a time of 14:12.45.

What place did Creighton finish as a team?

Creighton finished third in the team standings at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships.

How did Elena Ruiz perform in the women’s 5K?

Sophomore Elena Ruiz claimed second place in the women’s 5K event.

What is the next major event for Creighton’s cross country team?

The team is preparing for the regional meet in two weeks, aiming for a national qualifying spot.

Where was the Missouri Valley Conference Championships held?

The event took place near Platte River State Park.

Key Performance Metrics from the Championships

The following table summarizes essential details from Creighton University’s performances at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships.

Athlete	Event	Placement	Time/Record	Team Impact
Mark Jensen	Men’s 5,000m	1st	14:12.45 (School Record)	Contributed to 3rd place team finish
Elena Ruiz	Women’s 5K	2nd	Not specified	Supported overall team positioning
Creighton Men’s Team	Team Standings	3rd	N/A	Strong depth for regionals preparation