Men's Cross Country Competes at FSU Invitational

Results

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The Troy men's cross country team competed in the FSU Invitational Friday night in Tallahasse, Fla.

“The men weren't too happy with the outcome of today's race,” said head coach Jeff Jenkins.  “Admittedly, I was a little disappointed at first too. There were several factors that were beyond our control that affected all of the runners today. The men were physically ready to lay down some impressive marks today, but the humidity was around 98 percent.  After being out in such a humid environment several hours before race time, the clock failed to show the results we were hoping for.”

The team was led in their 8k race by junior Enock Kirui.  Kirui finished 17th in a field of 162 runners with a time of 26:17. 

“Despite going through the mile marker in 4:41, Enock managed to still hold on for one of the prestigious top 20 finishes and maintained relative consistency from his race in Mobile this year,” said Jenkins.  “I think he learned a few lessons today that will make him more successful at Sun Belt.”

Junior Kemper Morton kept pace with Kirui throughout the meet, recording a time of 26:39.3 finishing 22nd. 

“Kemper ran like a true leader today,” Jenkins said.  “He came out and ran his second best 8k time in his career.  As a matter of fact, Kemp ran 2:15 faster than what he ran on the same course last year and almost a minute faster than his 2011 season best.  The amount of improvement this young man is showing is very promising for the championship season and for outdoor track season as well.”

Freshman Phillip Jones finished with a time of 29:33.9 placing 113th for the Trojans.  Sophomore Sam Ammons finished 119th with a time of 29:58.  Cameron Sanchez, Garrick Hawkins and Joel Chastain finished 129th, 157th and 158th, respectively for Troy.

The Trojans next meet will be at home when they host the annual Coach O Invitational on October 13, beginning at 10 am. Admission is free and coaches encourage everyone  to attend.

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