Results

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (EMUEagles.com) — The Eastern Michigan University men's cross country team took sixth place today, Oct. 16, at the Penn State National Invitational in University Park, Pa.

The Eagles scored 182 points with an average time of 26:05 in the 5.2 mile race, led by sophomore Terefe Ejigu (Mount Cook, Wellington-Wellington College, New Zealand). Ejigu was impressive this afternoon with a first place overall finish, marking the first of his collegiate career. His pace time of 4:53 kept him at the forefront of the 266-participant field, crossing the line at 25:23.

“Terefe's first collegiate cross country win was certainly very exciting and meaningful for him and the team,” said Head Coach John Goodridge. “Both have been training hard for the Mid-American Conference championships in two weeks. Each gained valuable experience from today's race.”

Senior captain Matt Hammersmith (Wolcottville, Mich.-Prairie Heights) was the next Eagle to cross the finish line. His time of 26:08 earned him a 37th place finish, while maintaining a pace time of 5:01. Teammate James Hughes (Manchester, Mich.-Manchester) clinched the 42nd place with a time of 26:13.

Freshman Harry Dixon (Nelson, New Zealand-Nayland College) took 48th (26:19) in his third race for the Green and White, while junior Austin Hendrix (Sylvania, Ohio-Northview) secured the 54th spot (26:24).

The Eagles will return to action on Oct. 23, when they host the EMU Classic. The event is scheduled for a 10 a.m. start.