Sept. 27, 2008

GREENSBORO, NC - The Winston-Salem State cross country teams overcame some stormy weather to pull out some strong performances at the Greensboro Invitational hosted by the Greensboro Pacesetters. The Rams and Lady Rams had to battle a talented field of 22 teams as well as rainy conditions in the outing.

The Lady Rams had a strong day posting a third-place team finish with 65 points, trailing only Virginia Commonwealth, who earned first place honors with 30 points and North Carolina Central with 43 points placed ahead of the Lady Rams. WSSU senior Irene Jeptolo ran away with first place in the event, recording a 19:21 in the 5K event. Not far behind her was freshman Jasmine Whitener, who finished seventh in the event with a 20:35. Junior Sandy Harrison placed 17th with a 23:23 while freshman Ashley Lawson finishing right behind her in 18th place at 23:31. WSSU senior Malliron Hodge rounded out the top five for the Lady Rams, placing 22nd in 24:20.

The Rams also finished third in the event with a team-total 90 points in the event. Virginia Commonwealth took the event team title while North Carolina Central took second place with 57 points. WSSU sophomore Aaron Barnes finished eighth in the 8K event posting a 27:44. Freshman Desmond Wiggan placed 20th in the event, 29:05. Senior Cory Wright placed 78th in the event in 32:11 while freshman Elijah Strickland placed 81st in 32:16. Rounding out the top five Ram finishers was WSSU senior Gerrod Sidbury, who placed 82nd in 32:16.5.

Both teams will return to action next weekend when the Rams and Lady Rams head to Due West, S.C. to take part in the Erskine Invitational.