Las Vegas, New Mexico - After an unexpected three-week break in competition, the New Mexico Highlands men's cross-country team returns to action Saturday at the Fort Hays State Tiger Open in Hays, Kansas.
The Cowboys' schedule was adjusted from the NCAA Pre-Nationals meet to the Tiger Open, but the competition remains strong. The field includes nationally ranked programs such as RMAC rival Colorado School of Mines, currently ranked No. 2 in Division II, and NAIA powerhouse St. Mary's, ranked No. 6 nationally. The meet will also feature several elite junior college programs, including No. 6 Hutchinson Community College and No. 10 Colby Community College.
Highlands has not competed since the HU XC Jam was canceled because of lightning, allowing the Cowboys to put together three weeks of uninterrupted training.
"We've been able to string together some good workouts, and Hays is a chance to race fast," said Head Coach Bob DeVries.
Saturday will also mark the season debut of Kelvin Kogei, the younger brother of HU All-American Weldon Chebon. His addition gives the Cowboys their deepest lineup of the season and provides the first opportunity to see the team at full strength.
The race could play an important role in determining the Cowboys' postseason strategy.
"We will see after this weekend how things look for NCAA qualifying and figure out if we need to race again or focus on RMAC and Regionals," DeVries said.
The Highlands women will not compete this weekend as they continue training and recovery with their focus centered on the upcoming RMAC Championships.
With a full lineup and several nationally ranked teams on the starting line, Saturday's Tiger Open serves as an important measuring stick as the Cowboys move into the championship portion of the season.
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