Williamstown, MA--This weekend Mt. Greylock Regional High School, the home course of the Williams' cross-country teams, will serve as the venue for a competitive race featuring some of the better Division III teams in the nation and some top notch Division I talent. It also marks the first time the Ephs will race some of their top runners at the 8K distance this season. For all of the returning members of last year's Nationals squad, which finished 3rd in Division III, September 26th is the first competitive race of the year.
The Ephs will be joined on their home course by some very strong squads. Perenial Division I stalwart Boston College brings its athletes to Western Massachusetts this weekend. Also traveling westward across the state is UMASS-Lowell, the 13th ranked team in the nation for Division II. Division III powerhouses will be present as well. New York University (14th ranked in Division III) and Plattsburgh (27th) are racing along with Colby, Hudson Valley CC, MCLA, Middlebury, Oberlin (OH), Springfield, and Union. Williams figures to have one of the top men's teams present as the men are currently ranked 4th in the nation for Division III.
Three races are to be held this Saturday: a co-ed 5K at 11:30 A.M., a men's 8K at 12:00 P.M, and a women's 6K at 12:45 P.M. Conditions should be comfortable with forecasters predicting mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the mid 60's.
The Mt. Greylock course provides a formidable challenge to any competing athlete. With beautiful woodchip trails winding continuously through a lush forest and several devestating hills, patience and pacing are crucial components of a successful race. "It's a great challenge, but I always enjoy racing on our home course," offered captain Corey Watts '10. "I look forward to this barometer of our team's abilities early in the season."
After back-to-back strong workouts this week, the consistent sentiment among all Eph athletes is a healthy enthusiasm to challenge themselves and the talented competition this weekend.
