The Spartan cross country team embarked on a journey this weekend to Columbia, Missouri, to participate in the highly anticipated Gans Creek Classic. The event, known for its challenging course and competitive field, draws top collegiate and high school teams from across the Midwest.

The Spartans, led by senior captain Emily Carter and rising sophomore Ben Miller, are looking to improve upon their performance from last week's meet at the University of Illinois. Coach Sarah Jenkins emphasized the importance of pack running and strategic pacing in navigating the undulating terrain of the Gans Creek course. "This meet provides a valuable opportunity for our athletes to test their fitness against strong competition and gain experience on a championship-caliber course," Jenkins stated before the team's departure.

The Gans Creek Classic is particularly significant this year as it serves as a preview for the upcoming NCAA Midwest Regional Championships, which will also be held on the same course in November. The experience gained this weekend could prove crucial for the Spartans as they aim to qualify for the national championships later this fall.

Several other highly ranked teams are slated to compete, including the University of Arkansas, Iowa State University, and the University of Missouri. The presence of these top programs will provide a stern test for the Spartans and offer a benchmark for their progress throughout the season.

While the team's ultimate goal is to perform well at the regional championships, Coach Jenkins stressed that the focus this weekend is on individual improvement and team cohesion. "We want to see our athletes execute their race plans, support one another, and continue to build momentum as we head into the heart of the season," she said. Results from the meet are expected to be released late Saturday evening, and the team will return to campus on Sunday to begin preparations for their next competition.