SYLVANIA, Ohio (LourdesAthletics.com) -- The Lourdes University Cross Country teams opened the 2024 campaign at the Auto Owners Spartan Invitational, hosted by Michigan State University. Although an annual event, this marked the first time the Gray Wolves received an invitation to the 2024 Annual Auto Owners Spartan Invite. 

The women's team placed ninth among 12 competing member schools, earning 312 team points, outdistancing St. Clair Country Community College by three, while the men's team posted 328 team points for a 10th-place finish, among 13. 

Leading the pack on the women's side was sophomore Jenna Ramsey, placing 86th among 173 qualifying times. Ramsey finished the 6k race in 25:12.3, for 49 points with a 6:45 pace. 

Competing in her career debut was freshman Rylee Shadowens, who was the second-highest placing female for the Gray Wolves, crossing the line in 26:25.5, good for 108th. Additionally, freshman Allie Buehrer also appeared in her first career race, finishing in 27:10.0. 

For the men, junior runner Liam Leblanc led with a 56th overall finish in the 8k among 250 total, crossing the finish line at 26:28.1, good for 31 points with a 5:19 pace.  
 
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Lourdes will take two weeks off to prepare for the Siena Heights University meet set for Friday, Sept. 27, in Adrian, Mich. Shotgun is scheduled for 1:30 pm.