Sunday, September 07, 2008

ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (Sept. 7, 2008) - A quartet of Buccaneer cross country runners made their season debut Sunday afternoon, as they competed at the Irish Brigade Commemorative 5K Run, in nearby Elizabethton. Sophomore Manny Gonzalez (Bryan, Ohio) and junior Jennifer Ely (Dryden, Va.) each turned in stellar performances at Sycamore Shoals Park, by claiming titles in their respective group.

Gonzalez finished the rugged course in 16:25, and won the all-around crown on the men's side. In addition to Gonzalez, ETSU newcomer Zack Berry (Knoxville, Tenn.) was also in action for the first time in 2008. Berry ended the race in third with a time of 19:39.

"This was a good race for both Manny and Zack as they make their season debuts," commented head ETSU cross country coach David Walker. "Manny turned in a strong run and hopefully he uses this as momentum when the season progresses."

On the women's side, (Jennifer) Ely also made her Buccaneer debut, and her run resulted in a positive outcome. The Dryden, Va. native blew away the field and finished the 5K run on top with a mark of 23:49. Sophomore Melissa Murrell (Knoxville, Tenn.), who competed for the ETSU track and field team a year ago, finished right behind her teammate in 24:38.

"It was good to finally see Jennifer and Melissa in action," said Walker. "Hopefully they can build off their strong finishes and gain some more confidence next weekend at Winthrop."  

The ETSU cross country team returns to action this Saturday afternoon when they compete at the Winthrop/Asics Invitational.

For more information on Buccaneer cross country, visit www.ETSUBucs.com.