The Collegian

Issue date: 9/6/07 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Andrew Dodson Leading the charge: Freshman Alex Ralston led the Chargers at the historic Rim Rock Farm Cross Country Course in Lawrence, Kan.

Head cross country coach Bill Lundberg told his athletes they were going to compete on sacred grounds - a place where legends were made. Rim Rock Farm at the University of Kansas, is one of the most prestigious cross country courses in the nation.

Hillsdale's men and women's cross country teams set foot onto dry soil at Rim Rock Farm this past weekend and did their best to perform to the caliber of the esteemed tradition.

Mist floated over the ponds of Rim Rock
Farm and a slight wind wandered throughout the course on Saturday morning. The sun shined down on 12 women's teams lined up for the 6-kilometer race. The Chargers, rich with freshman rookies, raced on the historic course and finished seventh place as a team for the Bob Timmons Invitational.

Sophomore Erin Brunko made the most of her debut race by placing first for the Chargers and 23rd overall with a time of 24:29. There was a minute spread between Brunko and Hillsdale's fifth runner to finish, senior Jennifer Gunderson.

"I felt like I could have went faster," said Brunko. "But it was a good race. I think I can go under 24 minutes."

With the temperature rising and less wind later in the morning, the Charger men competed in the 8-kilometer race. The Chargers rose to the occasion and placed second in the invitational, only behind the University of Kansas - a NCAA Division I program.

Freshman Alex Ralston led the way for the Chargers, placing 15th overall with a time of 27:03. Lundberg said he enjoyed watching four Hillsdale runners finish in the top five with only 30 seconds between Ralston and sophomore Tim Howse who finished fifth.

Sophomore Britton Deuel, who finished second, said he was excited about the tight pack running of his fellow teammates.

"Having all five of us come through the second mile together was awesome," Deuel said. "It was a sweet race, good course, and a great way to start the season."

The cross country team will continue their season September 14 at the Michigan State Invitational in East Lansing.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools