Colgate University’s men’s and women’s cross country teams opened their 2025 campaign on Saturday, Aug. 30, competing against upstate New York rivals Binghamton University and Syracuse University at the Harry Lang Invitational. Following impressive performances on both sides, the teams hope to continue to develop throughout the season before heading to Lehigh University for the Patriot League Championships on Oct. 31.
During the off season, the Raiders named five new cross country captains: sophomore Nell Droege, juniors Dakin Ebmeyer, Liam Davis and Audrey Luell and senior Owen McMorrow. This mix of young talent and veteran performers led the Raiders to a successful season opener at Harry Lang, establishing momentum they hope to continue to build on.
Sophomore captain Droege led the women’s team, finishing in fourth place with a time of 18:21.5. Seven other raiders joined Droege in the top 20 finishers from the meet, led by sophomore Annie Reilly who finished in sixth place.
Placing second out of the three teams at the meet, the women’s team was excited by its early-season performance and looks to capitalize on a week without competition before its next meet on Sept. 12. Droege spoke of her team’s performance and her excitement for the season to come.
“The Harry Lang home meet was a very motivating way to kick off our cross country season,” she said.
Droge went on to comment about the momentum the first-year class has brought in.
“This year on the women’s side, we saw a huge improvement in performances, higher placing, and much faster times.”
The men’s team also saw success, with athletes securing 9th, 10th and 11th place overall. Finishing in second place out of three teams, the team saw statement performances from upperclassmen. With first-years and sophomores showing notable progress, they hope to continue to build on that throughout the season.
Junior captain Ebmeyer commented on his emotions following the team’s performance and his hopes for the duration of the season.
“We return six of the top seven from last year, which will be crucial this year, whilst a strong [first-year] class made their mark as they began their collegiate careers.”
Ebenmeyer expressed his hopes for a championship season this year.
“We’re hoping to translate our success into momentum and ride it to a great performance at the League Championship at Lehigh in October and beyond.”
Coach Chelsea France enters her third season as the head coach of Colgate’s cross country and Track & Field teams with an impressive season opener for both the men and women. France spoke to the honor of having the first meet of the season be a home meet and her emotions following the Harry Lang Invitational.
“Competing alongside a top-10 program in front of our alumni, families and recruits, our team — led by outstanding captains — has built on the strong foundation we’ve established and continues to grow more competitive each year.”
Moving forward, Colgate cross country will continue its 2025 campaign at the Penn State Harry Groves Spiked Shoe Invitational on Sept. 12. Both teams hope to build on their initial success from Harry Lang.
