Aug. 29, 2008

Chicago, Ill. - The UIC cross country team kicks off the 2008 season on Friday, Aug. 29 as the Flames compete in the DePaul Cross Country Opener.

Both races will be held at Channel Runne Park in Lincolnwood, Ill.

The women's 4K race begins at 5:30 p.m., while the men's four-mile event is scheduled for a 6 p.m. start.

Also participating in the women's portion of the meet are Chicago State, Milwaukee, Loyola, Green Bay and St. Xavier. The men's meet consists of the same opponents, except Northwestern will replace St. Xavier.

"I'm excited to see how the teams compete against Horizon League rival Loyola and where we stack up against DePaul and Chicago State," said head coach Jim Knoedel.

Transfer Kristen Heckert will pace the women's team as the No. 1 runner in the meet.

"I look to Kristen to be one of the top runners in the Horizon League so it should be an exciting year," said Knoedel.

In addition to Heckert, veterans Mary Brennan, Rosie Gillam, Danyelle Somerfield and freshman Toni Ogundare will round out the top five for the UIC lineup.

"Toni's speed will a tremendous asset as her endurance improves throughout the season," said Knoedel.

Alex Sutphen was the top runner at the time trial last week, but freshman Brian Denk was right on his tail, so the fight for the No. 1 spot on the men's team should be fierce.

Mark Riggs, Roger Pinon, Nic Aubert and Josh Bland will provide the experience and depth to challenge any team in the Horizon League.

"They have all put in the miles over the summer so we can remove the blemish from last year's Horizon League finish," said Knoedel.

UIC's two additional newcomers will help push the veterans.

"Freshman Sam Kehoe and Tyler Hinckley are strong additions to the squad and will challenge the returning athletes for the top spot," said Knoedel.

The Flames compete in the Illinois Intercollegiate meet in Normal, Ill. on Sept. 19. UIC then heads to Indiana for the Notre Dame Invitational on Oct. 3, followed by the Bradley Invite in Peoria, Ill. on Oct. 17 to conclude the regular season.

The Flames will compete at the Horizon League Championships hosted by Green Bay on Nov. 1.