Winston-Salem State newcomers had strong showings at 2008 Asics Winthrop Cross Country Invitational.  The young Rams and Lady Rams led their teams to solid team finishes in the gold (NCAA Division I) division of the event.

As a team, the Rams totaled 384 points and finished 12^th out of 17 NCAA Division I opponents. The Rams left Wofford, North Carolina Central, and South Carolina State, Georgia Southern, and Presbyterian in their wake. Leading the charge for the Rams was freshman Aaron Barnes, who 66^th overall in the 8K event in 27:23. Fellow freshman Desmond Wiggan wasn’t far behind as he placed 69^th in 27:27.

The women’s team had a strong day as well finishing 12^th among the 17 NCAA Division I opponents. Once again, it was senior Irene Jeptolo leading the way, placing 32^nd in the 5K event. She completed the event in 19:11 to lead the way for the Lady Rams. Freshman Jasmine Whitener was also strong finishing 82^nd in 20:10. WSSU freshman Ashley Lawson got a special treat in the event, placing 117^th in 21:36, six places behind her sister, South Carolina State’s Lauren Lawson.   

The Rams and Lady Rams will stay close to home for their next competition as the team will take part in the Greensboro Invitational in nearby Hagan Stone Park.