GSU Runners Place Third at Skyhawk Invitational

DIXON, IL—The Governors State men's cross country ran under ideal conditions in finishing third at the Skyhawk Invitational, held Saturday on the campus of Sauk Valley Community College.

Sunny skies and 65-degree weather produced fast times at an event won by the Northwestern Track Club (17 points), which finished ahead of Carl Sandburg CC (48) and Governors State (71). GSU's score was a new program record.

Freshman Nick Bushey ran the fourth-fastest 8K time in school history, crossing the line in 30:26 (PR) to finish 23rd overall. Classmate Manny Perezchica finished in the Top 25 with a time of 31:07. Omari Coleman chopped nearly two minutes of his personal record with a 32:20 showing and Cristian Espinoza finished under 33 minutes for the first time with a 32:22 effort.

GSU's entry list also included Daniel Perez (33:35), Danny Nguyen (38:28) and Matthew McNeil (43:09). All told, five Jaguars recorded PRs on the flat course.

"Our guys ran with tremendous heart, led by freshman Nick Bushey. I am so proud of their efforts and drive today. They are going to help us make that move forward," stated GSU Head Coach Kevin Kredens.

GSU travels to the NAIA Seminole Valley Stampede next Saturday in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.