From Emory University Athletics
The Emory men's cross country team opened its 2016 season Thursday evening with a strong showing at the Watermelon Run. The 8K race was held at the Clara Bowl Course and hosted by Berry College
The No. 32-ranked Eagles topped the five-team field, finishing with 23 points, with host Berry claiming runner-up honors with 33 points. Rounding out the competing squads were Oglethorpe (81 pts.), Piedmont College (118 pts.) and LaGrange College (155 pts.).
Emory sophomore Bennett Shaw set the pace for the 66 runners taking part in the event, crossing the finish line in the No. 1 position in a time of 27:04. Freshman Luis Torres was second among the Eagle contingent and third overall with an effort of 27:31 while junior Shane Sullivan's 27:33 ranked fourth. Rounding out the team's scorers were freshmen Martin Pimentel (27:50. 6th place) and Samuel Branson (28:02, 9th). A total of 22 Emory runners participated.