Oct. 4, 2007

With two weeks off the South Carolina Cross Country has continued to improve, making two consecutive appearances in the NCAA Division I Cross Country regional rankings. The Gamecocks have another chance to show their skill as they head to Orlando, Fla., to compete in the Walt Disney World Cross Country Classic, Sat., Oct. 6. The women’s 5,000-meter race is scheduled to begin at 8:55 a.m.

The Walt Disney World Cross Country Classic plans to host 20 teams. The top teams include Florida State’s B team, ranked # 12 in the NCAA, Milligin University, ranked #2 in the NAIA and the University of Tampa, a ranked NCAA Division II team.

Head Cross Country Coach Stan Rosenthal expects a shot at first place. “If we race well, we will be in the hunt for first. The course is a fast one and we should end up with good times, if the weather cooperates,” he said.

The Walt Disney World Cross Country Class will be the Gamecock’s largest race and will give them a chance to prepare for the SEC competition. “Everyone is excited about the meet. It will be our toughest and largest race this season. It is a good stepping stone to help us get ready for SEC’s,” Rosenthal said.

The Gamecocks are coming off a strong showing two weeks ago at the First Annual Charlotte Invitational. South Carolina placed six runners in the top-15 to claim a second place finish. Senior Rebecca Chain led the Gamecocks for the third consecutive time this season with a fifth place finish.

The Gamecocks will be back in action Friday, Oct. 12 as they head to State College, Penn. to compete in the Penn State Invitational. The race is set to begin at 10 a.m.