CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Montreat College cross country competed against a deep field of NCAA schools at the Queen City Invitational Friday evening in Charlotte where the No. 20 men's squad finished fifth out of 43 teams and the women's team, which is receiving votes in the most recent national poll, finished 16th out of 39 teams.

"These were some of the toughest race conditions I have ever encountered," said director of cross country Jason Lewkowicz. "It was over 90 degrees at race time and the lack of rain caused the dirt course to be extremely dusty, impacting air conditions. That said, I thought our teams were tough and put a solid performance together."

Ben Schmidt was the top finisher for Montreat's men, coming in 13th with a time of 25:37. Caleb Silver and Dan O'Dell finished back-to-back, 48th and 49th respectively at 26:38 and 26:40. Rounding out the top five finishers for the Cavalier men were Dylan Branch at 26:48 and Caleb Potter at 27:19.

"For the men, we were without our normal top runner Nathan Richards, who we held out to preserve a minor injury. Ben Schmidt stepped up to have a great race and lead the Cavs," said Coach Lewkowicz. "The heat definitely impacted a few of our guys, but we had enough stick it out and end up with a solid team effort. To come through with a top-five team finish with those conditions and being short-handed is an indicator of how deep and strong this group is. We have a wonderful opportunity to run as a full team against great NAIA competition next weekend at Louisville."

On the women's side, Lydia Wilson was the top finisher, placing 37th overall at 19:06. Erica Morin was close behind, crossing the finish line at 19:47. Finishing out the top five for Montreat were Jenna Mallory at 20:59, Madeline Sides at 21:18, and Rosie Marshall at 21:28. Skyler Tait, Jerica Ploeger, and Lillie Siniard rounded out a close pack for the women's squad.

"The women were very resilient under tough running conditions," said Coach Lewkowicz. "There were some ups and downs with the effort overall, but I loved seeing them fight it out the entire 5k and to see the close pack in our 3-8 runners. This group is continuing to gain confidence, and I trust that they will use this race to help prepare them for what is coming later in the season."

Up Next: Both squads head to Louisville, Ky. Saturday, Oct. 5 to compete in the Louisville XC Classic.