The Southwestern men's cross country team competed in its second meet of the season Friday, Aug. 31, at the Bill Buxton Invite in Indianola. It was a cool, wet day as storms pushed past. It was a welcome break from the heat and humidity that the team dealt with the first time out. The Spartans finished in second place out of the five-team field with 56 points.

The Spartans knew going into the day that Simpson was going to be tough to beat. "They have a solid team with added depth and experience since they are a four-year program. We gave them a run early, but ultimately faded with tired legs the second half of the race," mentioned Head Cross Country and Track and Field Coach Trey Bruton. The men's race was highlighted by an eighth-place finish by second-year Spartan Shane Breheny of Greenfield. "Shane was our No. 1 at the national championships last year and I expect that we will see several more performances like this throughout the season as he helps lead the way for us. His experience is welcome up front as he sets a great example for everyone on our team and pushes them to get better."

Bruton summarized by saying, "It was a big step forward for us this season. The kids showed that even without having our legs fully under us that we can compete well with almost anyone. The potential for success this season is very high if they just keep listening and putting in the effort that they have been each and every day."