MACON, Ga. - Mercer University cross country coach Ryan Bailey has announced the addition of two more recruits to his list of commitments beginning with the 2010-11 season.  Linda Batna (Kandava, Latvia) has committed to run for the Bears’ women’s team and Sony Prosper (McDonough, Ga.) intends to become a part of the men’s program.

Batna, while relatively new to the longer cross country distances, is already proven at some distance events. Batna was the 2009 champion in her native Latvia in both the 1500 and 3000 meter events.

“I am very pleased to have signed Linda to the Mercer program,” said Bailey.  “She is a solid student and a very accomplished runner. She hasn’t run that many cross country races, but her talent level will undoubtedly carry her until she becomes more experienced.

“When you consider what Linda is able to do in context with the accomplishments of our other incoming freshmen and our returning squad, I think Mercer women’s cross country is looking at a quantum leap in terms of accomplishment. This year’s recruiting class is absolutely superb. I can’t wait to get started.”

Prosper, from Union Grove H.S., finished 25^th at the 2009 Georgia state cross country championship meet in a time of 16:29 minutes. His personal record five kilometer time is 15:55 minutes. In his track career, he has back-to-back second place finishes in the Henry Country Championships in 2009 and 2010.

 “Sony is going to be a very good addition to the squad,” said Bailey. “He is a very talented runner who has improved steadily over the past few years. However, it is clear that his best years are in front of him.

“I have no doubt that Sony will make an impact on the team immediately.  He seems to have the right combination of ambition and talent needed to fit right in with this squad. I am looking forward to watching him develop as a runner”