MACOMB, IL — Western Illinois cross country traveled to Missouri on Friday to compete in the Gans Creek Classic, where the Leathernecks raced against a strong regional field and turned in several solid individual performances.

Women's 6K (Black Division)

The Leatherneck women put together a competitive pack in the 6K Black Division race.

Aylana Cezar led the way with a time of 23:12.9, followed closely by Deana Hudson in 23:13.9. Emma-Kate Watt was the third Leatherneck across the line in 23:31.0. Rounding out the top five were Finley Hancock in 24:10.2 and Ellie Eastman in 24:15.9. Also competing for WIU were Marissa Shute in 24:35.0 and Lily Patterson in 25:03.1.

The tight spread among WIU's top three highlighted strong depth at the front of the lineup.

Women's 6K (Open Division)

Three Leathernecks raced in the Women's Open division and gained valuable experience.

Aurora Dominguez was the top finisher in 24:15.4. She was joined by Ava Gorrie in 24:38.9 and Cassandra Brushaber in 25:26.4.

Men's 8K (Open Division)

The Western Illinois men placed 11th as a team in the Open 8K, with six athletes crossing the line.

Robert Perry paced the Leathernecks, running 25:19.5 for a 16th-place finish. He was followed by Logan Beckmier in 26:35.8 (78th), Brody Harker in 26:48.6 (87th), Evan Eberhart in 27:30.6 (135th), and Eason Comer in 28:20.6 (166th). Logan Rosas also competed, finishing in 29:33.1.

Perry's top-20 performance highlighted the men's effort, with the team showing strong representation in a large field.

Up Next

Western Illinois will continue its season next week at the Joe Piane Notre Dame Invitational on October 3, where the Leathernecks will test themselves against another deep field.
 

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