Shepherd, MI - The Grace Christian University men's and women's cross country teams kicked off the 2026 cross country season at Central Michigan University for the Jeff Drenth Memorial Invitational on Friday morning.  The meet featured NCAA D1 competition from Central, Western, and Eastern Michigan Universities allowing for a great opportunity to run fast early season times on the 5k course at Shepherd High School. 

On the women's side, sophomore Sayla Bender (Kingsley, MI) led the way for the Tigers and qualified for Nationals in her first race of the season.  Her time of 22:59 was almost a minute faster than her time on the same course last season, reflecting the growth and work she has put in since last year.  Sophomore Aura Fleis (Republic, MI) also made a strong season debut, finishing in 26:42.

For the men, since the race distance was a 5k and not an 8k, they were not eligible to qualify for Nationals at this race; however, it was a great opportunity to get back into the mode of racing again with fast competition and a great course.  Junior Ian Hinkle (Grand Ledge, MI) looked strong throughout the race, leading the Tigers across the finish line with a time of 17:43.  Sophomore Caleb Anderson (Wyoming, MI) was not far behind with a new personal best 5k time of 17:57.  Junior Jude Vargo (Penn Hills, PA) also made a solid season debut with a time of 22:59.

The next race for the Grace cross country team will be at Northwood University on Saturday, September 12.  This is a change from the original schedule that was posted online.  The men's 4 mile race will begin at 10 AM with the women's 5k to follow.  The course is located on the Northwood campus at Fisher Fields/Fisher Family Trails on 4000 Whiting Drive in Midland, MI for those traveling to watch the Tigers in action next weekend.