Valdosta, Ga- The Valdosta State men's and women's cross country teams will kick off the 2025 season at home with the Seventh-Annual Border Clash on Friday, September 5th, at Freedom Park in Valdosta. The women's 5k race is set to begin at 6:15 p.m., followed by the men's 7.25k at 6:50 p.m., with awards to follow the completion of both races.

The meet, which began in 2017, will feature seven men's teams, 13 women's teams, and eight unattached runners competing in this year's event. The Border Clash is free. 

Fans are encouraged to attend and support the Blazers at Freedom Park, located at 3795 Guest Road, Valdosta, GA 31605.

Unlike traditional team races, the Border Clash offers a unique format: it pits the top five runners from Georgia schools against the top five runners from bordering states. The result is a state-versus-state showdown for regional bragging rights.

Last year, despite rainy conditions, both the VSU men's and women's teams took home first place at the Border Clash. On the women's side, five Blazers finished in the top five, including returners Sarah Simpson, Anna Brown, and Ella Burnett, who placed third through fifth in their VSU debuts.

For the men, Nick Waddell and Caleb Tilford led the Blazers with second- and eighth-place finishes, respectively. Waddell clocked a time of 24:54.2, while Tilford crossed the line in 27:35.9.

Heading into Friday night's season opener, both teams are aiming to start strong on their home course. The women's team is led by senior Anna Brown, while the men's team is anchored by returner Caleb Tilford. Both squads feature a deep roster of young talent, eager to make an impact in their 2025 debut.

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