MANHATTAN, Kan. The Kansas State men’s and women’s cross country teams did battle with in-state rival Kansas at the K-State/KU Dual Friday evening at Warner Park in Manhattan. The K-State and Kansas men split the team victories, each scoring 28 points. The K-State women’s team came up short, finishing 21 points behind a solid Jayhawk women’s team.

Highlighting the men’s race were six K-State men’s runners finishing in the top ten. Senior Joe Moore led the way with a strong second place showing, followed by freshman Alex Umberger finishing fourth. Senior Christian Smith and freshmen Casey Johnson, Ben DeLay, and Danny Schneider rounded out the top Wildcat runners.

Overall, coach Michael Smith was happy with the men’s results.

“I thought our men ran pretty well,” said Smith. “We had some freshmen who stepped up. Alex Umberger ran a great race for a freshman. Casey Johnson stepped in there and did pretty well. I hate to compete that hard, and leave here with a tie, but as far as I can tell, the rulebook doesn’t break ties in cross country. We competed the best we could. This is a tough course, and it was hot. I look forward to seeing them open up an 8K next week.”

Freshman Jana Gwinn took charge for the women’s team. The former Kansas high school state cross country champion finished second in only her second collegiate race.   

“We weren’t able to run everyone because one of our girls is sick,” commented Smith. “The one’s that were out there did the best they could. I’m happy with what they did. Jana (Gwinn), a freshman, did a great job for us finishing second. She continues to get better and gains confidence with each race she runs.”

Also cracking the top ten was sophomore Stephanie Lavin with a ninth place finish. Rounding out the K-State field were sophomores Eleanor Burton and Whitney Patton, while freshman Breana Yost crossed the line 15^th.

The Wildcats will travel to Lincoln, Neb. for the Woody Greeno Invitational next Saturday, September 17.