Emmitsburg, Md. — Senior Kathryn Gearhart crossed the line in first place overall (18:02) to lead the Maryland women's cross country team to a third place finish at the Mount Saint Mary's 5K Duals Friday.

Gearhart crossed the line 14 seconds before all other runners proving her fitness early in the fall season. 

"I got off to a pace that I knew I could sustain and was able to hold the lead until the finish," Gearhart said. "It felt good to lock into a rhythm for this first time racing this season."

Gearhart's main goal this year is to qualify for the 2019 NCAA Cross Country Championships, while leading her teammates along the way.

Senior Brittany Lang (18:31.65), junior Christine Laurie (18:57.08), sophomore Sarah Daniels (19:05.11) and freshman Anna Coffin (19:27.52) were among the top five finishers for the Terps, setting the tone for the team. With these scorers in position, the team secured a third place finish.

The freshmen Terps had a strong start to their campaign with Claudia Dolan and Samantha Facius finishing sixth and seventh for the squad. Kira Freedman and Camryn Streib also crossed the line for the first time in a Maryland uniform. 

Senior Caroline Augelli continued to be a steady force throughout the race. Juniors Julia Reicin and Courtney Mann had a strong season debut along with senior Paige Novak. 

"Today was a good way to start the season," said Gearhart after the meet. "The training is paying off and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do in the upcoming meets."

With high hopes set on championship season, the Maryland Cross Country team will take on their next meet at the University of Virginia 5K Saturday, Sept. 14. 

-TERPS-