Zach Anderson

The SDSU men’s cross country team finished 21st out of 25 teams at the Roy Griak Invitational on Sept. 27.

Leading the way for SDSU in the 8,000-meter race at Les Bolstad Golf Course were Rapid City natives Michael Krsnak, who placed 129th with a time of 26 minutes and 51.8 seconds, and Marshall Kambestad, who placed 142nd with a time of 27:06.6.

“We are excited about the youth of this team; however, it would be nice to have a few more veterans on the squad. It is difficult for 18 to 19-year-olds to compete with 22 to 23-year-old men. Our day will come as long as we continue to work hard and be patient,” said Jackrabbit head coach Rod DeHaven said.

Greg Beesley placed 158th with a time of 26:51.8, and Brad Anderson placed 166th with a time of 27:06.6 for the Jackrabbits.

“I thought that Michael Krsnak, Greg Beesley and Brad Anderson all had solid efforts on Saturday. Mike, because he led the team, Greg ran well despite a nagging calf injury and Brad looked the best he had all season,” DeHaven said.

Elkanah Kibet of Auburn (Ala.) won the race, which featured 229 runners, in a time of 23:55.3.

Division II Adams State (Colo.) won the team title with 75 points. Iowa State was second with 89 points.

SDSU will host its only home meet of the season on Oct. 4. The SDSU Classic is set for an 11 a.m. start at the Edgebrook Golf Course.