Pacific University's cross country teams competed in their season opener against Lewis and Clark on Friday evening at Westmorland Park. 

The women finished with a team score of 22 points against Lewis and Clark's 37 points. Freshman Hannah Berdahl (pictured) and senior Serena Wallace finished first and second, respectively. 

"I saw a great amount of positivity from everybody," Wallace said. "Especially the second half of the race, the girls had great kicks into the finish, all of them holding position. It was a great start to the season. We're all strong and healthy and fit!"

The men's team was led by junior Nick Slenning, sophomore Riley Stewart, and freshman Gavin Vance who placed second through fourth, respectively. The men finished with 24 points against Lewis and Clark's 32 points. 

 "It was a good first meet," Nick Slenning said. "Everyone ran well and looked strong."

Bailee Cofer, in her first year as the Assistant Coach for Track and Field and Cross Country, was excited about the results of the first race. 

"The teams competed very well today," Cofer said. "The athletes looked very strong and relaxed in their races. We had some excellent efforts today and are starting the season on a great note."

"Both teams were very impressive today," said Matt Lydum, Head Coach of Track and Field and Cross Country. "The returning athletes competed great and clearly did their work over the summer; the new recruits show incredible promise."

The Boxers continue their season with a trip to Tacoma, Wash. for the PLU Invitational in two weeks.