MEMPHIS, Tenn. (09.05.09) - So much for easing into a season, Bethel took part in the Memphis Twilight XC Classic against schools, like Ole Miss, Alabama, San Jose State, etc. It was the first meet for new head coach Brandon Kilburn. The men's team finished 21^st of 25 and the women were 22 of 24. NAIA 2008 National Qualifier Nelphat Bor finished the highest of all the Wildcats placing 51^st.

On the men's side, the top teams were:

1. The University of South Alabama

2. The University of Arkansas - Little Rock

3. The University of Mississippi

4. The University of Alabama.

Finishing places and times for the men's team were:

51. Nelphat Bor - 21:37

79. Bethuel Boinett - 22:15

163. Bill Robertson - 24:44

167. Ryan Nieuwenhuis - 24:54

173. Jacob Robertson - 25:17

177. Ron Plemmons - 25:26

195. Brett Adams - 27:56

On the women's side, the top teams were:

1. Samford University

2. Harding University

3. San Jose State University

4. Arkansas State University

Finishing places and times for the women's team were:

142. Anna Martin - 23:17

143. Emily LaForce - 23:18

164. Mallory Blankenship - 25:23

177. Paige Martin - 29:25

181. Mitzi Murphee - 31:06

The Bethel cross country teams will next participate in the Vanderbilt Commodore Classic in Nashville, Tenn. on September 19, 2009 at 9:00am.