October 16, 1998

COLUMBIA, MO. - Following an excellent week of practice the Missouri Cross Country team will compete in the South Florida Invitational on Friday, Oct. 16.

After breaking into the top 20, the 18th ranked men will see more quality competion in Tampa this weekend. By defeating 11 ranked teams last weekend at the Pre-National Invitational in Lawrence, Kan., the Tigers have thrust themselves into the national spotlight, and into the sights of their competitiors.

"South Florida and Loyola are hungry and looking to knock Missouri off. It is a nice position to be in, but we need to make sure we don't take anyone lightly," Head Coach Jeff Pigg said.

South Florida, Florida, and Loyola have all recieved votes in the last NCAA poll and will put pressure on the Tigers. A field of 28 teams will compete in both the men's and women's races.

The Missouri women have also had and excellent week of practice and will be challenged by a strong field that includes South Florida(19), Florida(23), and Tennessee(28).

"Those are three schools that don't get a lot of respect, but I expect them to be at Nationals later this year," Pigg commented, "so it would be great to go in and knock one or two of them off."

Sophomore Courtney Bell will not make the trip to Tampa due to a nagging injury. The injury is not believed to be serious.

Both teams left Thursday morning for Tampa and will return Saturday morning. The women's race is scheduled for 5 p.m. eastern with the men to follow at 6:15 p.m.. Results will be available one hour following the race. For complete race information see the sidebar below.

Results The South Florida Sports Information staff will have results on the Conference USA Faxback system one hour following the race. Media outlets wishing to receive results may access them at the number below. Access Number: (201) 585-5404 Request Numbers: 2171(W), 2172(M) Results will also be available via the Info Connection fax-on-demand system and on the Missouri website: www.mutigers.com.