September 29, 2001

Stats

Stanford,Calif. - For the second straight year, the Gauchos found themselves at the forefront of the famous Stanford Invitational Meet. Placing 3rd in a 27-team, the men posted a solid showing at their first "big meet." Though the team finished in the front of the pack, a sour taste was left after finishing behind conference opponent Utah State. The Gauchos logged a final score of 74 with Utah State 20 points ahead.

"It's difficult to lose to a conference opponent," said senior Aaron Sharp. "But it's early in the year."

The men were led by 5th year seniors Josh Horton and Eric Gans, finishing in the 6th and 10th scoring spots respectively. The Gauchos packed up well with junior Brandon von Guenthner taking 15th, junior Bryon Lamorandier in 20th, and Sharp in 22nd.

Lamorandier celebrated his 21st birthday with the most notable race of the day. He was called to fill in for Steve Rider, who was resting due to injury, and established himself with a terrific race, running ovre a minute faster over the course from last year. "Lamo ran great for us," said head coach Pete Dolan. "He's definitely expanding his range from strictly a 1500 meter runner."

The men will rest this weekend, but will run in one of their most important races of the year the following weekend at the Pre-NCAA meet in South Carolina. The team needs to earn at-large points by beating outer-region teams that will earn automatic NCAA qualifying spots.