Complete Results

NORTHVILLE, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – The Eastern Michigan University Men's Cross Country team kicked off the 2010 season in winning fashion, placing three runners in the top 10, including a first place finish by sophomore James Hughes (Manchester, Mich.-Manchester), at the Running Fit Detroit Titan Invite today, Sept. 11.

Hughes paced the Eagles with his first place time of 20:25.0. Head Coach John Goodridge was very pleased with Hughes' performance.

"He is our top returning placer from last year's MAC Championships,” said Goodridge. “He was asked to run as our number one man today. Running in the number one team position is a serious responsibility. James ran a very intelligent race and captured his first collegiate victory."

Junior Andrew Pfeiffer (Clarence, N.Y.-Clarence) was the next EMU runner to cross the line at 20:51.0, good for a fifth place finish. Redshirt freshman Cody Chabola (Kingswood, Ohio-Edgewood) ran effectively, taking ninth place (21:02.0) in his first collegiate race. He was followed by teammates Ransom Brown (Coldwater, Mich.-Coldwater) and Wes Stoody (Fenton, Mich.-Flint Powers Catholic), who took 14th and 15th, respectively.

Former EMU cross country standout Curtis Vollmar, who took first place in last year's invite, also participated this afternoon, finishing in forth place with a time of 20:49.0.

"I am pleased with our competitive effort,” said Goodridge. “Today's lineup gave selected individuals the opportunity to either assess current fitness, gain collegiate experience, establish a team position or sharpen racing skills."

The Eagles are idle next week and will head to Western Ontario University for the Western Invitational, on Saturday, Sept. 25. The event is slated for a 10 a.m. start.