Memphis, TN – A young Austin Peay State University men’s cross country squad fought through a tough first meet at Saturday’s Brooks Memphis Twilight, hosted by Christian Brothers at the Mike Rose Complex.
Freshman Alex Haycraft was the first Gov across the line with a personal-best 23:04.85 mark. Following close behind were a pair of Govs freshmen, Daniel Hamm (23:05.26, 47th) and Hunter Guthrie (23:05.72, 49th).
Freshman Martin Rejman (23:15.36, 56th) and sophomore transfer Cory Nwaiji (23:27.49, 63rd) rounded out the scoring five for Austin Peay – Nwaiji was the only Gov runner who had any collegiate experience prior to Saturday’s race after competing for Alabama State in 2012. Freshman Nathan Sparks (26:42.29, 147th) rounded out Austin Peay’s contingent for opening weekend.
“I thought we were a little nervous starting out,” said head coach Doug Molnar. “We didn’t get out as strong as we needed to, but they ran well in a pack. This is a good group of guys that will put in the work. Tonight was a learning experience; they’re going to get better.”
The Govs will be back on the course next week at Chattanooga’s PowerAde Invitational, hosted at Moccasin Bend. Starting time is scheduled for 5:45pm (CT).
