IRVINE, Calif. -- Vanguard men's cross country barreled through the first event of the year at the VU Invitational and finished third out of the five teams. The Lions ran a total time of 2:17:37 and got one top-10 finisher in Jesse O'Campo, who placed eighth in a mark of 25:28.6. UCI left Mason Regional Park with both the team and individual titles.
 
What Happened?
Next up for the Blue and Gold was Cooper Anderson, who strode over the line in a time of 26:41.1 in 16th.  Two places back was Ommary Arroyo, who clocked a 26:43 and passed one runner down the final straight.  Caleb Dickerson finished with a 28:52.3 in 28th and freshman Rylan Starnes rounded out the group with a 29:51.9 in 34th.
 
What was Said? "Our athletes competed with great heart and joy today and we had great support from Vanguard, family and friends!" said Head Coach Bryan Wilkins. "I couldn't be more proud of how this team kicked off our season."

What's Next?  Both teams will head to the TMU Invitational on September 20, at 7:30 a.m. in Santa Clarita.