Results

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The Cal State East Bay men's cross country team raced against a loaded field of 26 Division I and II teams on Saturday morning at the annual Capital Cross Challenge, hosted by Sacramento State at Haggin Oaks Golf Course. 

The Pioneers took 19th overall, just one spot behind CCAA rival San Francisco State.

"We struggled a bit today, but we will be alright," said head coach Tony Nicolosi. This is an incredible young team, and they ran in a field that closely resembles postseason races. We knew we needed a little experience in that area and we got it today. There's a lot of season left, and I know all the guys will be chomping at the bit to race again."

Individually, Esteban Leon was East Bay's top finisher, taking 98th place in the field of 266 total runners. The senior crossed the finish line in 26:03.5. He was followed by fellow senior Israel Sotelo, who notched 128th place with a time of 26:20.8.

The CSUEB freshmen competed with the team for the first time today, and Bryan Llopis led the way as the squad's third overall finisher, placing 155th in 26:38.8. Sophomore Luke Calubayan was next, finishing 166th in 26:48.7.

Rookie Xavier Smith provided East Bay's fifth team score after taking 172nd place with a time of 26:56.7. He was followed by fellow freshman Justin Flores in 179th place (27:04.5).

The Pioneers will race again in two weeks when they head down to Baylands Park for the annual Santa Clara Bronco Invitational, the team's last tuneup before CCAA Championships.