Tide Men's Cross Country Hosts Crimson Classic
9/16/2005 12:00:00 AM
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Fans will get their first glimpse of the Crimson Tide men’s cross country team this weekend as the Tide will host the 2005 Crimson Classic.
“We’re always excited when we get to run at home,” said Coach Joe Walker. “It allows our teammates, family and friends to come out and get a feel for what cross country is all about.”
The Tide has won the last two Crimson Classic meets in 2002 and 2003. Last year’s meet was cancelled due to Hurricane Ivan. This year’s team will be the favorites to claim its third straight Classic title at the 8k Harry Pritchett Cross Country Course.
“Anytime you run at home, it’s an advantage,” Walker explained. “The guys feel like they’re defending their home turf so you get a little more out of them. There’s a familiarity with your home course. You’re in your own element, sleeping in your own bed, it just feels more like your normal routine.”
There will be 13 total schools competing in the meet including SEC teams Mississippi State and Ole Miss.
“This is a smaller meet than in the past, but it’s a good meet for this early in the season,” Walker said.
Alabama is coming off a first place finish in last week’s Brooks Memphis Twilight Classic. Freshman Augustus Maiyo led the team with a second place finish and was name the SEC Cross Country Athlete of the Week for his efforts.
The men’s race is scheduled to begin Saturday at 9:00 a.m.
