MCC Cross Country Makes Return

Clinton, MS - The Meridian Community College cross country team made its long awaited return Saturday at the MC Season Opener Saturday in Clinton.  The men turned in a 7th place finish in their debut.

On the men’s side, Cristian Lopez lead the team with a top 25 finish in the 5k race placing 25th with a time of 18:08.43.  The Eagles also had two other runners finish in the top 30 with Josh Austin placing 26th with a  time of 18:08.75 and Tyler Warren placing 30th with a time of 18:25.89.  Rounding out the scoring for the Eagles were David Odom (44th, 19:46.30) and Quindeleon Oliver (45th, 20:00.03).

“We had an off day today,” Head Coach Chip Gayden said. “We are young with 7 freshmen, and I think that showed today.  I feel like we were a little nervous and the course was a little muddy.  We will get better, it’s our first meet of the year and it’s a long season.”

On the women’s side, Esmeralda Rodriguez led the way with a top 25 finish placing 25th with a time of 17:28.47 for the 4k race.  Breanna Ivey rounded out the women’s side with a 38th place finish in a time of 19:06.15.

“I felt like our women’s group ran alright,” said Gayden.  I think they were a little nervous as well, but they will improve as the season progresses.”

The men’s and women’s teams will return to action on Sept. 13 in Hattiesburg, MS for the Southern Miss Cross Country Invitational.