This past Saturday, under sunny early October skies, the 2007 Collegiate Pre-National trials were held in Terra Haute, Indiana, at Indiana State University, bringing together dozens of universities in women’s cross country.

Out of the many teams competing for a chance to showcase their dominant runners, SBU, finished 14 out of 35 teams.

With 245 athletes competing in the meet, the team was led by a strong performance by Jessica Hampson, who, with sisters Holly and Lucy Van Dalen, finished inside the top 90. Rounding out the top performances for the team was freshman Laurie Huet and senior captain Dana Hastie, who finished within the top 100.

Coach Andrew Ronan praised his team for their competitive drive and fighting spirit as the top teams from around the nation looked on.

‘The women’s team competed very well at the Pre-National Meet, considering it was their first time on the National stage. Finishing 14 out of 35 teams was very encouraging, as we approach our next meet. The next race begins the championship phase of the season. We host the America East Championships for the first time, and we feel we are strong enough to capture the title,’ he said.

The men’s cross country team will be on their way this weekend, as they journey to Central Connecticut State University to compete in the invitational there. Coach Ronan said, ‘The men’s team will compete this weekend at the Central Connecticut invitational, it is their final tune up for the America East Championships, where they are also a contender for the title.’

Extra pressure is on the men’s team this year to compete with the Blue Devils. Both teams are favorites to take home the title championship.

Stay tuned for more exciting cross country action and be sure to catch the America East Championships here at SBU in two weeks.