Race Results

WATERFORD, CT (October 15, 2011) – Running in extreme wind and amongst a strong field of regionally ranked teams, the Vassar College men's cross country team finished 6th of 14 teams at the Connecticut College Invitational at Harkness State Memorial Park on Saturday afternoon.

In the all-division 8k race, the Brewers finished in 6th place with 155 points. Southern Connecticut captured the race, followed by Connecticut College and College of New Jersey.

In battling against a formidable field and a strong wind, the Brewers were racing without two of the team's top runners in senior Justin Rupert and junior Sam Wagner.

Led by seniors Zach Williams and Will Healy, the Brewers bound together for a strong performance. Williams led the Brewers across the finish line, placing 8th overall in a field with 211 runners with a 26:11 time. It was the fastest performance for Vassar at the meet since Anthony Lucero ran a 26:14 in 2006. Healy was right on Williams' heels, finishing 9th overall in 26:12.

Freshman Eliot Gerson, who led the race in the early stages, was Vassar's third finisher and 38th overall in 27:10. Senior Evan Russek finished in 47th position (27:26) and Vassar's scoring contingent was completed by junior Roni Teich in 57th (27:34). Sophomore Lisle Schaeffer placed sixth for Vassar and 85th overall (28:06). Freshman William Barker finished in the seven-runner contingent for the first time this season. He had an 89th place finish in 28:09.

“Considering we were missing two of our top five runners, I am very happy with our performance today,” said associate head coach Ron Stonitsch. “With those two guys running we probably finish third in a mixed division race with ranked teams in the region.”

Stonitsch praised the team effort from top to bottom. “We asked several of our runners to step up today, and they all did. It's great to see guys like Evan, Lisle and William among our top seven. I am pleased with the team and look forward to the Liberty League Championships when we have our full compliment of runners.

The Brewers return to action on October 29, hosting the Liberty League Championships at The Farm at Noon.