OREM, Utah (Friday, August 30, 2024)— The Salt Lake Community College cross-country teams are looking formidable after starting the season over the weekend.

The Bruins participated in the UVU XC Invitation on Friday, August 30. Despite not running many of last year's top performers, Salt Lake showed they will be a force to reckon with in 2024. 

"We decided to give the freshmen women a chance to lead and see where they are without the crutch of the veterans," SLCC head coach Isaac Wood said following the meet. "On the men's side, I thought it would be interesting to see what they looked like without our top group."

Angelina Leone ran as the SLCC women's number one and competed against some top-tier athletes. 

"To have a true freshman get in there and say, 'I'm going to give it a shot.' She hung with some really talented women."

Former Utah Valley runner Luke Francis had an excellent performance against his former school. 

"It was cool for me to see him run with the best of Utah Valley athletes and have a good race. For his confidence and for us to know where we're at."

Much can be learned from watching an early-season race, and the former BYU XC coach discussed what he looks for in these moments. 

"How well do they begin the race? How do our athletes do from the halfway mark to the finish? Are we moving up in the last half? Are we battling people as they pass us? Are we working with teammates to dig deep and stay strong together?"

Salt Lake was the top junior college team in both races, beating out the College of Southern Idaho.

"It felt like everyone made a great effort and had a great first race. It gives me an idea of what we can be this year, and that's exciting. 

Up Next

SLCC will participate in the BYU Autumn Classic on Friday, September 13.

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