Coming off a disappointing showing last week at the NYU Invitational, the Hopkins Men's and Women's Cross-Country teams made a strong effort at the George Washington Invitational on Saturday. Both teams placed 13th out of 18 mostly Division I schools.
The men were led by sophomore Steven Chu once again as he recorded the fastest Blue Jay time this season at 26:58, and finished 39th in the pack. Chu's time was 1:34 faster than last weekend's team leading finish at NYU.
Senior John Apperson and junior David Courson were Hopkins' second and third finishers respectively with times of 27:39 and 27:58. Apperson's time was 1:45 faster than his previous personal career best as a Blue Jay. Junior Jamie Parks performed solidly as well, as he shaved 18 seconds off his personal best, while freshman Gavin Barnhard finished 1:19 faster than his showing last week, with a time of 29:07.
On the Women's side, junior Hilary Knipe and freshman Tiffany Miceli both finished under 20 minutes, Knipe led the way as she finished in 43rd place with a time of 19:52. Miceli finished closely behind in 50th place with a personal best time of 19:58. Rounding out the top five Lady Jay finishers were freshman Peggy Chu, senior Mary Stahley, and sophomore Claire Gaden.
Head Coach Bobby van Allen was pleased with the Blue Jay effort, stating, "The team really responded this week after a disappointing race up at NYU. They showed their true character and set the tone for the rest of the season."
Another positive outlook on the race was the fact that the Hopkins men avenged an earlier 35 point loss to Towson at the Baltimore Metro, this time beating the Tigers by 7.
The Blue Jays return to action this Saturday against Division I competitor, Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa.
Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The News-Letter.