The cross-country team will attempt another step toward a national title at the NCAA II South Central Regional meet at 10 a.m. Saturday in Abilene.
With a 19th consecutive conference title under their belt already, the Wildcats’ next hurdle on the path to the 2009 National Championship is the regional race. Coach Sam Burroughs’ squad put forth a dominating performance at the Lone Star Conference race, running away from runner-up Tarleton State and the rest of the field; however, the regional meet will present a different set of challenges.
“The field of talent is probably three times greater than at conference,” Burroughs said. “It includes three total conferences, so the field is tripled, and the competition will triple as well.”
Burroughs said he thinks Missouri Southern will present the biggest challenge to his team. The Lions captured the 2009 Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association conference title, anchored by Brennon Benkert. Benkert crossed the line in third place at the conference race and figures to be a contender at the regional meet.
Regarding individuals, Burroughs expects another big race out of Amos Sang. Sang captured the individual conference title, and Burroughs fully expects him to take first at the regional meet, as well.
Home-field advantage could also weigh in the Wildcats favor. The 2009 race will take place at Abilene’s Grover Nelson Park, a course with which the ACU team is very familiar.
“The advantage home field gives you is that you know the course,” Burroughs said. “You know the course, how much is left and the footing ahead. Knowing the course back and forth gives the kids confidence.”
It continues to be a rebuilding year for ACU on the women’s side. However, Chloe Susset will make a push to finish in the top ten, which would qualify her for the national race.