Bob Holt is a sports reporter for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. A graduate of the University of Missouri, he sits on the board of directors for the U.S. Basketball Writers Association, is a member of the Football Writers Association of America, and a voter for the Heisman Trophy and AP Top 25 basketball poll. He has been awarded Arkansas Sportswriter of the Year four times and has been inducted to the Arkansas Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame.
Bucknam named XC coach of the year in SEC
By:
Bob Holt
Published: Tuesday, November 14, 2023
(
Andy Shupe)
Arkansas coach Chris Bucknam watches Saturday, April 22, 2017, during the John McDonnell Invitational at John McDonnell Field in Fayetteville.
FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas coach Chris Bucknam was named SEC Cross Country Coach of the Year, it was announced Tuesday.
The Razorbacks won the 2023 SEC cross country title this year with 38 points to beat defending champion Alabama, which had 57.
“Obviously thankful for the team and how great they ran at the SEC Championships,” Bucknam said. “You win an SEC title — and I’ve said it for years and I won’t back down from it — you arguably are the best in the country no matter what sport you’re in.”
It’s the 30th SEC coaching honor for Bucknam in cross country and track and field in his 16 years at Arkansas. He has led the Razorback to 30 titles, including 11 in cross country, 11 in indoor track and field and 8 outdoors.
“It’s a reflection of the guys on the teams, the fact that I’ve won 30 of those things,” Bucknam said. “I’m also grateful for the staff that I have and how hard they work and how long they’ve been with me, and how loyal they are.
“It’s a team effort. I appreciate the honor, but also appreciate everybody around me that helps us get there.”
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