Cross Country Opens 2024 Season At Principia Dual

ELSAH, IL -- The Blackburn College Cross Country teams got their season started Friday evening at Principia College in a dual meet. 

The men's team saw five finishers while the women put six across the finish line. 

The men's team featured four runners finishing in 25 minutes, led by senior Kobe Patton who finished the race in 25:12. Sophomore Ulises Espinoza came in at 25:34 while sophomore Collyn Oberkfell crossed in 25:38. Senior Marco Nova was close by at 25:59. Rounding out the men's team runners was Sebastian Bautista in 50:26. 

Freshman Alexis Johnson paced the women's squad with a time of 26:17 to place second overall. Sophomore Gracie Jent was next in 31:15 while sophomore Kailynn Kruep finished in 34:51. Two newcomers to the team next to finish as Breanna Allen, 46:40, and Brianna Melchor, 46:55 were recently added. Freshman A'Santianna Austin closed out the women's race in 51:07. 

The teams will now enjoy time away from competition before heading to Bradley University on September 20 for the Bradley Intercollegiate race.