Buchanan and Marina Lead Way for Bears in Cross Country Opener

SAYVILLE, N.Y. -- The St. Joseph's College (Brooklyn) men's and women's cross country teams participated in the SJC Long Island Friends & Alumni Meet at Broadway Park on Friday afternoon.

Sophomore Alexis Buchanan (Murrieta, Calif./Murrieta) completed the 4K course in 20:07.4, placing her 28th overall among racers. Following her were senior Daniella Alva (Brooklyn, N.Y./Bishop Kearney) at 22:45.8 and freshman Raquel Ramirez (Woodhaven, N.Y./St. Francis Prep) at 22:52.8. Rounding out the Bears runners were Tianna Junor Browne (Brooklyn, N.Y.) at 23:43.3, and Rosa Rosas (Brooklyn, N.Y./Edward R. Murrow) 33:09.0.

Christopher Marina finished his first collegiate race in 25:10.0, good enough for 27th place in the 6K meet. Shortly behind him was classmate Christopher Tracy at 26:09.3, who placed 30th.

The Bears will next travel to the friendly confines of Van Cortlandt Park on Sunday, September 15, to participate in the Queensborough Invitational. Race time is scheduled for 10 a.m. for the women and 11 a.m. for the men.