ROMEOVILLE, Ill. --- The Bethel men's cross country team kicked off its 2025 season at the Flyer Early Bird Invite on Friday night, competing in the shorter 6000m distance at the Lewis Cross Country Course. The Pilots placed sixth overall with a combined score of 169.
Head coach Ryan Sommers commended the team's overall performance, "I'm proud of how the team seized the chance to shake off the rust and compete. They establish a positive atmosphere for the remainder of the season.
Aaron Douglass was the frontrunner for Bethel, finishing in 22nd place with a time of 20:01.56. Following him were:
Andrew Golba (36th, 20:44.42),
Devyn Clements (46th, 21:14.10),
Benjamin Keller (73rd, 22:56.52), and
Toby Burns (80th, 23:27.36). Junior
Logan Mann finished the Pilots' lineup in 24:25.66.
Sophomore
Toby Burns commented on his race, stating, "That was my most strategic race despite the many gaps on the course."
The Pilots will next compete on Saturday at the Diemer Classic, hosted by Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich. The meet will commence at 9:30 AM.
For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, check out bupilots.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X by searching @bupilots or #TheRightWayToPlay.
