Ries was the first member from the Wartburg women's team to run at Nationals since 1996.

"It meant a lot being the only runner out there, but having all your fans and teammates cheering for you," said Ries.

Following up a personal best at regionals last week, Ries outdid herself again Saturday, easily running the best race of her career.

"Erin ran really well," said head coach Steve Johnson. "She had a great race, and she ran as well as she was expected to. She beat people in the national meet that beat her in the regional meet the week before."

Johnson said he has enjoyed watching Ries progress through her years in the Wartburg program.

"It has been exciting for me to see her blossom throughout the course of four years.

"She has just gotten better and better along with being more confident and assertive. To see her go from a good runner in high school to a national caliber runner is just great, said Johnson."

It was Ries' first time running at nationals. Johnson said he was impressed by her performance.

"She ran very aggressively," said Johnson. "You would never know it was her first time at the national meet."