Elmhurst, IL - The 2011 cross country season started off on the right foot this past weekend despite adverse conditions.  The weather was not runner friendly with temperatures in the 90's, no clouds and noticeable humidity.  Add in that 5 ladies on the roster did not compete due to various academic and personal commitments suggesting the strength of the teams strong 4^th place finish in the field of 12 schools.

Leading the way for IIT was freshman Abby Jahn (Wasilla, AK).  Ms. Jahn time of 15:30 was strong enough for an overall 3^rd place finish.  Her time also established a new freshman school record for that course, and is the second fastest time in school history for the 4 kilometer distance.  Next across the line for IIT was Courtney Rouse (Midland, MI) with a time of 16:15 and good enough for 14^th place. A couple of strong top 25 performances by returning athletes Maddy Jensen (Greendale, WI) and Kira Vincent (Liberty Twp, OH) helped set up the Scarlet Hawks for their finish.

"We had some really good performances today but we still have a lot of work to do.  Not everyone had a good race today but championships aren't won in September" Commented Coach Kopinski.

The ladies next race is this Saturday 9/10 at the Midwest Collegiate Championships in Kenosha Wisconsin.