On Sept. 26, the UVU Cross Country team found themselves in Minneapolis, Minnesota to compete in the twenty fourth annual Roy Griak Invitational. Coach, Scott Houle (currently in his sixth season of coaching at UVU,) expressed satisfaction with how the team did. “Both the men and women performed better than they ever have at Roy Griak,” he said. “Mary Nothom placed sixth and the girls finished fourth overall, which was a great surprise.”
When asked what he believes the teams greatest strength is, he replied, “When they run, they run together. They pack very well, which helps to lower the point score.” In response to being asked about any difficulties the team faced in Minnesota, he said, “There were many big name schools, which was challenging, but we ended up beating many of them!”
Sophomore Angie Baker, from Liberty, Utah, said in reaction to her performance, “I felt pretty good. I didn’t feel content though, because I know I can do better. I’m really happy with the team’s success though, that was amazing.”
When asked what personal goals she has set for herself for the rest of the season, she said, “I want…No, I’m GOING to go to regional’s. I also want to better my time on each course from last year and get past mental blocks in the middle of races.”
Coach Houle’s goals for the rest of the season are: 1. Finish out the rest of the meets strong. 2. Go in and win conference championships in New Jersey, And, 3. Qualify for the NCAA Regional Meet in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
He is encouraging the runners to stay healthy by not drinking out of the same cups or bottles, washing their hands, minimizing handshakes and just being smart.
The Cross Country Team’s next event will be held on October 10th at the Color Country Invitational in Cedar City, Utah.
