The Collegian

Issue date: 9/18/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Andrew Dodson

Freshman Tim Jagielski said it freaks him out seeing fellow freshman Kaylyn Blaauw running her race because she smiles when people cheer for her. He joked that it's because he probably isn't that happy of a person.

Jagielski countered a solemn face with a happy time at the Michigan State Invitational; he was the third fastest freshman of the day out of all schools including Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Grand Valley State University.

Hillsdale's men and women's cross country teams opened their season at the Michigan State Invitational on the University's Forest Akers Golf Course.

Hillsdale secured two top-thirty finishes on the men's side with Jagielski (21st) and junior Timothy Howse (29th). Freshman Amanda Putt led the lady Chargers with a 42nd place finish.

"Amanda and Melissa are really stepping it up and making an immediate impact," assistant coach Sarah Hinkley said. "I think what we really need to focus on the next couple of weeks is our mental toughness - just getting out there and being competitive and tough."

The Hillsdale coaching staff views the Michigan State Invitational as an introduction for the Chargers to their opponents.

"The MSU Invite shows us and our athletes how we match up to our competition," assistant coach Michael Nikkila said. "That's really what cross country is all about. It isn't about the time, it's about the place. This is the real distinction from track and field. Times change depending on the course and the weather but what remains the same is who you are racing against."

Head coach Bill Lundberg said he felt positive about the race, but sees more potential in his teams.

"Not everyone had their 'racing hats' on," Lundberg said. "But that will come I think in the race this coming weekend."

Average followers of cross country call it a non-contact sport, but sophomore Chuck Wysong and his freshman brother, Jeff, experienced an aggressive race.

"We were running by these Saginaw [Valley State University] runners and they slowed down in front of us," Chuck said. "I ran through the middle of them and brushed one of the guys shoulder and he got ticked off about it and came up behind me, pushing me in the back."

Chuck said he nudged the Saginaw runner to let him know he was just passing him, but this resulted in the runner high stepping and attempting to spike his heels.

Continued...

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