GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Lander men's cross country team opened the 2026 season Friday night at the Bruins XC Night Classic, placing eighth in the team standings with 174 points.

Freshman Jayden Metzler led the Bearcats in his collegiate debut, finishing 15th overall in the 6K race with a time of 20:33.20. Jasiah Whitfield followed in 34th at 21:12.90, while Tariku Thompson placed 36th with a time of 21:24.20.

Ronin Kruse finished 38th overall at 21:34.20, and Noah Blankenship rounded out Lander's scoring five in 51st with a time of 21:58.80.

Benjamin Carroll finished 54th at 22:09.20, followed by Cooper Mayo in 60th at 22:26.50. Dreyden Borski placed 73rd in 23:45.60, while Trey Sloan finished 80th at 26:13.20.

Lander will return to action Sept. 12 at the Furman Invitational.