TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - The Flagler College men's cross country team wrapped the Florida State University Invitational at Apalachee Regional Park, placing fifth overall this morning.

The Saints rattled off their best finish at FSU since 2020 where they finished second. The Saints competed against 34 total teams, 13 of which were Division I affiliated. Some of the competition consisted of University of Georgia, Louisiana State University, No. 5 (NAIA) Taylor University, the University of Tampa, and the University of Miami.

In a pool of 317 finishers, the Saints had eight runners land in the top 50. Led by Finn Russell, the senior opened his 2025 season with an 8K time of 25:24.2, god for a 22nd place finish. "Our top guys separated a bit more than I wanted over the last 2k of the race, but for a season opener I'll take it," head coach Brian Beil said. "These guys have been living right and training well for a long time now, it was nice to finally get out there and see someone other than just ourselves." Will Stone competed in his second race of the season, placing second for the Saints and 26th overall with a 25:27.3 finish. Brandon Knieja rounded out the senior trio with a 25:35.7 finish, putting him at 31st.

Making his 2025 debut as well was Miquel Fons who placed 35th in 25:42.5. The Saints had two freshmen crack the top 40. Andrew Munnik and Axel Dabe occupied 38th and 40th with a 25:49.3 and 25:50.4 finish. Coach Beil stated, "Today marks the beginning of our eight week season, hopefully ending with nationals."

The Saints will take a week break before traveling to Romeoville, Illinois for the Lewis Crossover, hosted by Lewis University on Oct. 11.