Here is Owen Wiseley of American River College’s men’s cross-country team during the University of San Francisco’s cross-country invitational on Aug. 29. Photo courtesy of American River College Athletics

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The American River College (ARC) men's cross-country team kicked off their season Aug. 29 in Golden Gate Park with determination at the University of San Francisco Invite, an event hosting top collegiate programs across California.

American River finished 10th out of a highly competitive field, posting an average time of 26:17 for the 8,000-meter course and a team score of 283.

American River College athletes delivered solid performances against a strong field.

Following is how the top five men fared. Cameron Mobley (freshman) led the team, placing 23rd, crossing the finish line in 25:15.7. Cyrus Justiniani (sophomore) had a strong showcase with a 25:44.9 and a 55th place. Owen Wiseley (freshman) clocked a 26:32.3, finishing 82nd. Tyler Farnworth (sophomore) came in at 26:55.5, earning 101st. Edwin Hooey (freshman) crossed the line in 26:59.6, placing 105th.

Cameron Mobley of American River College’s men’s cross-country team is pictured during the University of San Francisco’s cross-country invitational on Aug. 29. Photo courtesy of American River College Athletics

Their combined efforts built a competitive pack. For the freshman, this was their first 8,000-meter race.

With Mobley, Wiseley, Hooey, Pringle, Guernsey, Laverty, Martinez and Pesce all freshmen, the team looks to have strong upcoming depth. Justiniani, a sophomore, anchored the team with a sub-26-minute effort, offering strong leadership heading into the season.

While the team placed mid-pack amid powerhouse programs, the results offer a solid benchmark. With improving fitness and race experience, American River College has clear potential to tighten up team scoring in future meets.

American River College's 10th-place finish at the University of San Francisco Invite marks a solid season opener, underpinned by consistent performances from both returning runners and newcomers.

As the season unfolds, attention now turns to improving team cohesion, pushing key runners deeper into the pack and building on the promise shown at Golden Gate Park.

American River College finished 10th out of a highly competitive field on Aug. 29, posting an average time of 26:17 for the 8,000-meter course, and a team score of 283 at the University of San Francisco’s cross-country invitational. Photo courtesy of American River College Athletics