Results

 

The women''s cross country team placed third out of 21 teams at the Iona Meet of Champions, despite the absence of top runner Hanna Grinaker.

The women faced off against east-coast teams such as Temple University, the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University at Van Cortland Park, in the Bronx, N.Y.

Sophomore Caitlin Comfort stepped up for the Badgers, placing ninth overall and first on the team, in 23:19. Teammate Karen Greuel finished shortly after, placing 13th overall and second for the Badgers with a time of 23:28.

Closing out the top 25 was junior Alexa Renstrom who placed third for UW in 23:59.

Freshmen Kiah Ehrke and Cassidi Running had solid performances in the first large meet of their collegiate careers. Ehrke placed 30th in 24:03 with Running following at 53rd in 24:30.

'"It was a good chance for the newer women to get a first taste of collegiate cross country,'" said head coach Jim Stinzi.

The meet took place at the famous Van Cortland Park, a notable cross country course in the middle of the Bronx.

'"It was a good learning experience because of the different type of cross country course,'" Stintzi added.

While the Badgers are accustomed to training on grass courses, the Van Cortland Park consisted of fine, gravel trails.

'"We just have to be a little more aggressive and we'll take positive steps forward for next meet,'" Stintzi said.

Despite the Badger's third-place finish, they are determined to improve in future meets.

'"We're not where we need to be this time of year,"' Stintzi said. "'We have to work a lot harder in practice and train a little differently now than we would otherwise at this time of year. We need to work on our strength more which will help us down the road."'