XC: Lasers Compete in Colby Sawyer Charger Invitational

New London, NH- The Lasell University men's and women's cross country teams kicked off their season with an exciting day at the Charger Invitational, hosted by Colby-Sawyer College.

The highlight of the meet came from freshman Caleb Ruch, who made a statement in his very first collegiate race by running 16:34.0 for the 5K to place second overall and set a new program record. His impressive debut continues to bring a new wave of energy and optimism to the program.

The women's team also had plenty to celebrate. Sophomore Ella Meeker continued her strong form with a seventh-place finish in 20:58.7, leading the Lasers in the 5K. She was joined by a tight pack of teammates, with sophomore Olivia Pennington finishing 26th and sophomore Molly Cohen crossing in 27th. Cohen's performance achieved a lifetime best of 24:55.0 in her season debut. Freshman Paige Helferich and senior Victoria El-Azem rounded out the lineup, helping the women secure a fifth-place team finish.