San Francisco, CA- This weekend Menlo XC headed back to Golden Gate Park to compete in the San Francisco State Invitational. Earlier this season the Oaks raced in Golden Gate Park and took this opportunity to see how they have progressed on a familiar course. Despite heat and a competitive field, the team showed some toughness as they prepare for the final few races of the year.

Top Performers of the Day

Alex Kemei continues to be a leader for the team on the course as he was the first Oak to cross the finish line. He would finish with a solid time of 27:52 which comes out to a 5:36 pace for the duration of the race. Freshman Marc Hegele has built on this season finishing as the Oaks second runner of the day. While most of Hegele's experience has come in shorter distances he has displayed a level of maturity and grit taking on longer courses and still producing for the team. Lastly, Enzo Cior had his best performance of the season as Menlo's third overall runner for the men's team. Cior put himself in position to have a solid showing by getting out and challenging himself early on. As a solid mile runner, growing into longer distances will be critical for the team's success down the line.  

On the women's side, injuries have taken a toll but the team still competed despite the heat and smaller roster size. For the day freshman Emmanuelle Hoffmann led the way finishing the course in 27:34. 

Up Next…

Menlo will enjoy a few days of rest before getting back on the course this Saturday at the University of Santa Clara Bronco Invitational. Last year the Bronco Invitational proved to be the race of the year for the Oaks with almost all athletes finishing with a season best time. Hopefully the team can match last year's success and turn in their best performances to date!