Cross Country back in action at Rhodes Invitational

Memphis, Tenn. - The men's and women's cross country teams were back in action Saturday at the Rhodes Invitational in Memphis, Tenn.

The women completed their first 6K test of the season, with junior Olivia Beggs leading the charge in a time of 25:24. Freshman Cathy Maschmeyer ran a smart, gutsy race in the first 6k of her career, finishing in 26:37 and earning Runner of the Meet honors for the Griffins. Cathy's split at 3 miles was faster than her high school personal best, proving that she is already making great strides in her first season at Fontbonne.

The day also featured three career debuts for the Griffins, with freshman Bethany Ottens, sophomore Jennie Stare, and junior Grace Poindexter all turning in solid performances in their first collegiate competition. Head Coach Kelli Blake was enthusiastic about their debut race. "I loved how excited each of them was to compete. They couldn't wait to get out there and race, and that love for the sport defines us as a program."

In the men's race, junior Cristian Sellars and sophomore Chris Brown both made their season debut. The hot and humid conditions made for a challenging season-opener, but Head Coach Kelli Blake knows they have more within them. "The first 8K of the year is usually a tough one, but the season is a process. Chris and Cristian are gaining fitness every week, and this is just a beginning point for them."

The cross country teams will return to competition on Saturday, October 11 at the Illinois College Invitational.