Graceland University Men's Cross Country Competes at Larry Young Invitational

COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Graceland University men's cross country team participated in the Larry Young Invitational this past weekend at the Gans Creek Cross Country Course, hosted by Columbia College. Despite not recording a team score, the Yellowjackets demonstrated determination on the challenging course, with four athletes competing individually.

Freshman Isaac Ramirez led the way for Graceland, placing 123rd overall with a final time of 29:36.0, averaging a 5:57.2 mile split. Ramirez, in his debut collegiate season, showed promise by maintaining a steady pace throughout the 8k race, gaining valuable experience on a difficult course.

Sophomore Moses Ridley was the second Yellowjacket to cross the finish line, placing 158th with a time of 30:38.4. Ridley's 6:09.8 mile split showcased his persistence and ability to push through the latter stages of the race. His performance built on a solid foundation from last season as he continues to improve his times.

Sophomore Matthew Patience finished 205th with a final time of 35:54.7, running a 7:13.4 mile split. Patience, who battled through the undulating terrain of the Gans Creek course, remained focused throughout the race and contributed a strong individual effort.

Rounding out Graceland's contingent was sophomore Logan Mace, who finished 212th with a time of 40:26.7. Mace recorded an 8:08.1 mile split as he fought through the final miles of the race, exhibiting the mental toughness required in cross country competition.

Although Graceland did not qualify for a team score, the performances of the individual runners provided insight into the team's potential for growth. Head coach Tom Shore emphasized the learning opportunity the race presented for his athletes.

"Even though we didn't have a full team, I'm proud of the effort our guys showed today," said Shore. "Isaac [Ramirez] had a strong race for a freshman, and Moses [Ridley] continues to improve with every outing. We knew this course would be a challenge, especially with some top programs in attendance, but this kind of competition will only make us better as we move forward."

Shore acknowledged the difficulties faced by the team, particularly the physical and mental demands of competing in large fields with diverse skill levels. "The Gans Creek course is not easy, and it really tested our runners," Shore added. "This race gives us something to build on. We'll take what we learned here and apply it as we prepare for the next meet."

The Larry Young Invitational featured several strong programs, with the host Columbia College among the top competitors. Despite the challenging conditions, the Graceland men gained valuable experience as they continue to develop under Coach Shore's guidance.

Individual Results for Graceland

With the Larry Young Invitational now behind them, the Graceland men's cross country team turns its focus to the upcoming Indian Hills Invite, which will be held at Cedar Creek Golf Course in Ottumwa, Iowa. The Yellowjackets aim to regroup and field a complete team as they continue their season.

Coach Shore is optimistic about the future. "We're looking forward to the Indian Hills Invite. It's another opportunity for us to improve and gain more experience. Our goal is to continue building on each race and ultimately peak when it matters most later in the season."

The Graceland men will next compete at the Indian Hills Invite which represents a critical step in their season, as the Yellowjackets aim to establish themselves in the upcoming meets.