Seattle University’s cross country teams competed in the Charles Bowles Invitational at Willamette University on September 30th. The women’s team achieved a strong second-place finish in the 5k, while Yonas Sauers’ record-breaking performance in the men’s 8k headlined the meet.
Redhawks Soar at Charles Bowles Invitational: Give Thanks 8k to Sauers’ Record Run
The Charles Bowles Invitational showcased impressive performances from both the men’s and women’s Seattle U cross country teams. The women secured second place overall in the 5k race, demonstrating their strength and depth. Azalea Groleau led the women’s team, finishing fifth with a time of 17:25.5, a personal best and the fourth-fastest 5k time in school history. Lilianne Hargreaves also contributed significantly, placing thirteenth with a time of 17:51.3, securing the eleventh-fastest time in Seattle U records. Emily Harris improved her time from last year by over a minute, finishing seventeenth with a time of 18:00.3. The women’s team’s success underscores their potential for continued strong performances throughout the season.
However, the highlight of the meet was undoubtedly Yonas Sauers’ incredible performance in the men’s Give Thanks 8k. The junior transfer shattered the Seattle U record, previously held since 2005, with a blazing time of 23:52.6. Sauers finished second overall in the race, a remarkable feat that solidifies his position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate cross country. His time was a full 15 seconds faster than the previous record of 24:07, a testament to Sauers’ exceptional talent and dedication.
The men’s team finished eighth overall, with Khalid Hirsi and Lance Mason finishing second and third for the Redhawks, respectively. While Sauers’ individual accomplishment stole the show, the entire team demonstrated commendable effort and determination.
Looking Ahead: George Oja Invite
Both the men’s and women’s cross country teams will compete next at the George Oja Invite, hosted by Linfield University in Salem, Oregon, on October 14th. The Charles Bowles Invitational served as a strong indicator of the team’s potential, and the Redhawks are poised to continue their upward trajectory at their next competition. Building on the momentum of Sauers’ record-breaking give thanks 8k performance and the women’s team’s second-place finish, Seattle U is ready to leave its mark on the upcoming George Oja Invite.
