The UTM cross country teams made a trip across the country to compete in the University of California-Irvine Invitational and found out how they stood against stronger competition from the West Coast.

The Skyhawk men finished 10th in the 8K run at Central Park in Huntington Beach, Calif. Sophomore Robby Clapper, from Hermitage led the Skyhawks with his time of 28:12.6. He finished 49th in the race.

Ryan Wilson turned in a 28:32.8, while Derrick Kenwright finished in 28:52.7. Rounding out the top five for the Skyhawks were Jeremy Coltharp (29:00.4) and Darrell Lewis (29:04.8).

In the women's 5K, sophomore Shalaine Phaup led the Skyhawks' effort with her time of 20:27.2. Phaup finished 33 in the race. Angelina Gracian completed the run in 21:34.9, while Michelle McCormack finished in 22:05.1.

Rounding out the top five for the Skyhawk women were Megan Vonderheide (23:34.2) and Cathy Bennett (24:23.7).

“Overall, the teams ran well, however we seemed a little sluggish from the week,” said UTM cross country coach Jason McKinney. “The trip was a great experience for the runners.” Many had never flown before, and most had never been to California.

“The teams were top notch, and we were able to see where we stood against some of the stronger teams from another region,” McKinney said.

Among the other teams participating in the California-Irvine Invitational were Cal Poly Pomona, Fresno State, New Mexico State, California State- Northridge, Azusa Pacific, Southern Utah and Santa Clara.