By: Bella Caccamo
MONTEVALLO, Ala. - The Valdosta State cross country team returns to action Friday Sept. 18 as they are on the road for the UM Falcon Classic. The competition field features a mix of Division I, Division II and junior college programs, including GSC members Auburn Montgomery and Montevallo.
Last Time Out:
At the VSU Border Clash the team opened with strong performances, the men's team coming in first place and the women's team securing second place.
Among the men, junior Nick Waddell took the lead by winning the race with a personal best of 24:37.9 over the 7.25K distance. Liam LeBrocq, Jake Wilkerson and Caleb Tilford came in right after him, and freshman Parker Henderson finished fifth in his first appearance at the collegiate level.
Samantha Savinon-Rios came second for the women with a time of 20:27.6, being only two-tenths of a second in front of third place. Ella Burnett and Emma Burnett also managed to finish in the top ten, coming in fifth and eighth place respectively.
Looking To Build:
The UM Falcon Classic will provide the Blazers with their first chance to take part in the 8K this season on the men's side, while the women will be running the 5K again.
Waddell intends to build on his solid opening performance, while the Blazers' men's pack, consisting of LeBrocq, Wilkerson, Tilford and Henderson, aims to carry on the momentum they gained in the Border Clash. The women's team will also strive to continue the strong start they've made to the season.Â
Meet Information:
Women's 5K: 8:30 p.m. ET
Men's 8K: 9:15 p.m. ET
Location: Montevallo, Ala.
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