Cross Country to Compete in 2008 New Balance Big South Cross Country Championships

ASHEVILLE, N.C. ? The UNC Asheville men's and women's cross country team travel to Lynchburg, Va. today for Saturday's 2008 New Balance Big South Cross County Championships hosted by Liberty University.

The action will commence at 10:30 a.m. with the start of the men's 8-kilometer championship. The women's 5K race will follow at 11:30 a.m.

In the men's competition, the Bulldogs will have to do all they can to chase down Liberty's runners. The Flames enter the meet as three-time defending Big South Champions. Liberty is lead by redshirt sophomore Sam Chelanga. Chelanga is considered by many as the best competitor in the country and is a favorite to win the NCAA individual championship on Nov. 24.

UNC Asheville head coach Jesse Norman will look for seniors Adam Matthews and Andrew Burnette to pace a young Bulldog squad to a strong finish. On Sept. 20, Burnette had a solid performance on the Liberty course as he took 15^th place in the Liberty Big South Preview.

Liberty is also favored in the women's race. The Lady Flames are two-time defending Big South champions. Coastal Carolina and High Point are both ranked in the top 15 of the Southeast Region and will look to dethrone the Lady Flames on their home course.

Freshman Emma Bussard is the top performer on the UNC Asheville women's squad. Bussard has carried the women's side this year as she has been the Bulldog's top finisher in every race this season.

Results from Saturday's championships will be posted on www.uncabulldogs.com immediately following the women's race.