ADRIAN, MICH.- The Adrian College Cross Country team kicked off their season at the Comet Invitational with strong performances, as the men secured a second-place finish and the women took fourth place overall.
 
For the men, junior Will Houvener led the Bulldogs with an impressive race, staying with the lead pack throughout and ultimately finishing second overall with a time of 14:13.8. Freshman Ryan Morris made a strong debut, finishing tenth with a time of 15:24.1. Senior Ethan Handley clocked in at 16:00.3 to secure 15th place, closely followed by freshman Grant Fahle, who placed 16th in his first collegiate race with a time of 16:01.3. Senior Colin Syrek rounded out the top five for Adrian, finishing 17th with a time of 16:02.4.
 
On the women's side, freshman Samantha Coots led the Bulldogs in her first race, finishing 14th overall with a time of 19:15.5. Sophomore Bridget Waterstradt was close behind, taking 16th place with a time of 19:18.7. Sophomore Sarah Anastaidas followed in 18th place, clocking in at 19:35.4. Junior Emma Frost crossed the line in 20:00.4 to secure 20th place, while freshman Olivia Hyatt rounded out the top five, placing 23rd with a time of 20:11.8 in her debut.
 
"We had some impressive performances from our new team members," said Head Coach Miles Caine. "Ryan Morris finished second for our team, and Sam Coots led the women's team with a strong showing."

"Will Houvener battled hard for the win but just missed out. It was a great start to our season and sets us up well for our upcoming 8k in two weeks."

The Bulldogs cross country team will take a week off before heading to Wayne State for the Warrior Challenge on Sept. 13