Hokie ClubBoone, N.C. -- Virginia Tech’s men’s and women’s cross country teams were in action in Boone, N.C., for the Appalachian State Invite Friday. The women’s squad competed in the 5k race, while the men ran an 8k course. The women’s squad placed second overall, earning 63 points, while the men came in third, collecting 108 points. Duke took the women’s title while host, Appalachian, won the men’s race.
In the women’s 5k, Paige Kvartunas was Tech’s highest finisher, placing ninth at 17:55.5. Following close behind was Sammy Dow, crossing the line tenth at 17:56.4. Dow was Tech’s highest finisher in their last competition, now placing in the top-ten for the second meet in a row. Jessica Trapeni was Tech’s next competitor to cross the line (19th, 18:19.5), followed by freshmen Taylor Crosson (21st, 18:20.5) and Courtney Dobbs (27th, 18:28.0).
In the men’s race, the Hokies were edged out of the top 20, but some finished in a small pack soon thereafter, with Eddie Judge leading the group (22nd, 25:24.1). Jason Cusack followed as Tech’s next top finisher (25:32.4) with Joseph Murray (25:35.9) hot on his heels.
In two weeks, the Hokies will look to earn a conference title at the ACC Championships in Boston, Mass. on Saturday, Oct. 30.