The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma’s Cross Country team began their new season at UCO’s Land Run this past weekend. This is the second year in a row the program has been active after a several year hiatus.

Both the men and women had a tough showing this weekend. On the women’s side, sophomore Deborah Park led the team coming in 65th with a 5k time of 22:50. Sophomore Richard Murray came in first for the men finishing 72nd with a four mile time of 25:42.

Head Coach Leandra Johnson said the team is showing improvement from last year.

“We ended last season on a good note,” Johnson said. “I expect the ones who did good for us last year to do even better this year.”

Johnson says she brought in a couple of new runners she expects to do well also.

“I brought in some new runners, freshman Kylie Parker, from Anadarko. She’s going to be one of my top girl runners. She’s really good,” Johnson said.

Johnson also brought in some new faces on the men’s team.

“I brought in Jeffery’s (Poolaw) brother, Elias Poolaw, who is going to be another good freshman,” Johnson said.

Johnson will also be looking at JUCO transfer Robert Dupoint to do well for the Drovers.

USAO will have this weekend off but will get back to running on Sept. 21 when they go to the OCU Fall Classic.