August 29, 2008

Lady Tiger runners open with strong performance

With all six of its runners placing in the top-20, the No. 6-ranked Cowley College women’s cross country team won its season-opening home invitational held Thursday at Camp Quaker Haven in Arkansas City.
“We were pleasantly surprised with the young ladies performance,” Cowley assistant coach Mark Phillips said. “We were so proud of their efforts.”

Cowley finished nine points better than second place Colby Community College, while Coffeyville and Cloud County rounded out the women’s teams at the meet.

Jessica McLeod was the top Lady Tiger finisher, as she placed third with a time of 12:51.20 in the two-mile run. Cowley freshman Cecilia Burley finished fourth (13:03.40).
“Jessica competed hard despite a hamstring issue, and Cecilia ran a great race,” Phillips said.

Fellow Lady Tiger runners Robin Ray and Janee’ Gabbard placed sixth and seventh, respectively. While, freshmen Jessica Dyer and Amanda VanDyke rounded out the squad by placing 19th and 20th.
Colby Community College’s Tonya Nero won the two-mile race with a time of 12:36.50, while Cloud County’s Danielle Cope finished 10 seconds behind in second place.

Sophomore Kari Rinehart was unable to compete due to injury. However, the coaches are hoping to have her back in the mix before long.

Cowley will return to action September 12 when they take part in the Friends University Invitational held at Lake Afton near Goddard.
“This should be a good test for us,” Phillips said.

Cowley results: (3) Jessica McLeod, 12:51.20; (4) Cecilia Burley, 13:03.40; (6) Robin Ray, 13:36.30; (7) Janee’ Gabbard, 13:45.60; (19) Jessica Dyer, 15:48.70; (20) Amanda VanDyke, 16:08.40.
Team scores: Cowley, 34; (2) Colby, 43; (3) Coffeyville, 68; (4) Cloud County, 71.