Denver, Colo. – Tristian Spence of the Adams State women's cross country team was named a 2025 honoree for Colorado Sportswoman of the Year in cross country, as announced by the association Friday.
Spence earned the honor after securing the 2025 NCAA Division II national championship earlier this season in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She claimed the individual title in dominant fashion, winning by nearly six seconds to solidify her place among the nation's elite.
A five-time All-American and two-time national champion, Spence has been a consistent presence at the front of championship races throughout her career. Her national title in Kenosha marked the latest highlight in a season defined by elite performances and steady leadership for the Grizzlies.
In addition to the Colorado Sportswoman of the Year recognition, Spence was recently named a finalist for the Division II Honda Athlete of the Year Award for cross country, placing her among the top female student-athletes in Division II.
The Colorado Sportswomen of the Year awards recognize outstanding collegiate female athletes across the state of Colorado for excellence in competition, leadership and impact within their sport. Spence's selection further highlights Adams State's tradition of success in distance running and cross country at the national level.
"The 2025 class highlights multi generational honorees whose lifelong dedication to competition continues to shape and inspire sport in Colorado," said Sportswomen of Colorado Executive Director Jennifer Anderson-Ehrlich. "They embody excellence and leadership across every level of sport, and they are not only outstanding competitors, but also a remarkable group of individuals. I am excited to see what the future holds for this group."
Spence will be honored at a banquet March 8, 2026, at the Denver Hyatt Regency Tech Center.