2008 Men Golden Grizzly Open Results


The Detroit Titans men's cross country team had 10 student-athletes open the season on Saturday as UDM started the 2008 campaign at the Golden Grizzly Open, held on the campus of Oakland University on Aug. 30.

"A real solid opener for us," said head coach Guy Murray. "It is a bit hard to compare with last year with the new course and distance as well as not having our full roster compete, but we are improved. How much will depend on getting everyone back and continuing to work hard and improving."

Just like last year's season opener, the Titans were led by a freshman as Alex Vanias was the team's top finisher with a seventh-place effort of 19:27 in the 6k.

"A nice debut for Alex," said Murray. "He has been running as we expected and will be a great addition this year."

Sophomore Alex Harris, running unattached, was right behind Vanias taking eighth in 19:40. Senior Jon Hans was the only other Titan to place in the top 20 finishing 15th in 20:15.

Sophomores Kevin Smalley and Ryan Ayala finished 22th and 23rd, respectively, as Smalley clocked in at 20:45, just one second ahead of Ayala's 20:46.

Junior Alex Gould took 33rd in 21:47, while sophomore Brian Greenhoe was 42nd with a run of 22:37. The Titans saw three of their freshmen run unattached with Rob Radlich topping the trio in 21:38, good for 31st place. Greg Saldutti earned 35th in 22:02, while Derek Hoerman was 39th in a time of 22:15.

The Titans return to action on Saturday, Sept., 6 as the UDM cross country team host the 22nd Annual Running Fit-Detroit Titan Cross Country Invitational at Cass-Benton Park in Northville, Mich. Entries are still being accepted for any individual looking to compete, with a $5.00 entry charge per athlete. More information about the event can be located by visiting the link on the cross country page.