LIMA, PERU — Recent Central College graduate Peyton Steffen (Marion) finished first in the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase at the FISU America Games Saturday in Lima, Peru.

Sanctioned by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), the America Games are held in even numbered-years for countries in North America, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Competition is spread across 14 different sport disciplines.

Steffen, who was the runner-up at the NCAA Division III Championships, crossed the line in 10 minutes, 27.10 seconds to win the race. Fellow American Amelia Hill from the University of Northern Iowa was second in 10:41.49. Athletes from Colombia, Peru, Mexico, Chile and Argentina also competed.

"It has been such a fun experience to come out to Peru and represent team USA," Steffen said. "I'm thankful for the coaches who have poured so much into us this week to give us an unforgettable time competing against other countries and with the best athletes across the NCAA and NAIA divisions. We were given USA pins to trade with other countries and small interactions across sports and cultures will be the moments I cherish most!"