The 2011 Cross Country season opened up for both the Trojans and lady Trojans at the University of Illini Challenge. The meet was held in extreme conditions with temperatures in the upper nineties and high humidity. Despite the conditions the women's team fared very well against mainly NCAA Division I competition In this 4k race. Breanna Newton was the top finishing Lady Trojan with a 22nd place finish. She was followed by sophomore Mandi Riddle (17:20; 37th), sophomore Sarah Erickson (17:23; 38th) and freshman Jennifer Yoder (17:35; 41st). Rounding out the top five for the ladies was junior Jessica Bailey (18:14; 47th). Overall it was a great way to start the season.
On the men's side conditions were just as extreme. The men ran at 7pm and although the temperature had dropped to the high 80's or low 90's the humidity was a factor for the men. The race was a 6k and like the women's race was mainly Division I competition. Teams that competed were from (Butler, Purdue, University of Illinois, Danville Community College and the University of Illinois Club Cross Country team). Senior Philiph Tonui was the top runner, finishing the 6K in 22nd place with a time of 19:59. Freshman Troy Pace (21:31; 48th) and sophomore Tyler Malone (21:57; 53rd) were the next two Trojans to cross the finish line. They were followed by senior Zach Lewis (22:32; 57th) and senior Brett Jones (23:26; 59th).
It was a great way to start the season with some very good competition on a great course. This is just the first step in long season. The next step is the HLG Trojan Invite on Saturday September 10th on the campus of Hannibal LaGrange University.
No comments:
Post a Comment