Sept. 23, 2010
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AUBURN, Ala.--After a strong performance at the Crimson Classic with two fourth-place finishes last weekend, the Auburn men's and women's cross country teams turn their focus to the Brooks Memphis Twilight Cross Country Classic. The Tigers are set to compete in the 5K and 8K Saturday beginning at 8:20 p.m.
"I think we should have some strong competition this weekend," head coach Mark Carroll said. "We'll have the whole day to rest since we are running at night, so we'll have to our advantage running in cooler temperature on a flat and fast course. Our first few races are to get the team going so we can get ready for SECs and thereafter, so this weekend if we compete strong we should do very well."
Ben Cheruiyot continues to lead the way on the men's side, and with help from Colin Barker and Jeff Sanders, the team should have a good chance at winning the race.
"On the men's side, we should have strong competition from Eastern Kentucky and Harding University, and if everyone run's well we should have a chance to win," Carroll said. "Ben, Colin and Jeff have been training very well, and if our fourth and fifth runners compete strong we have a good chance at a great team finish."
Holly Knight is expected to set the tone for the women's team after running a personal-best 16:59.30 to win the Crimson Classic 5K.
"I'm not sure how the individual competition will be, but if we can get out strong we will do well," Carroll added.
In addition to Knight, Stephanie Barnes and Elizabeth Briasco should help Auburn be victorious as a team this weekend. Barnes and Briasco have finished as one of Auburn's top three runners all season.
"We have a good chance at finishing in the top three this weekend on the women's side," Carroll added. "Holly, Stephanie and Elizabeth have trained well, and should do well for us this weekend."