Warren Wilson College hosted the Bruins cross-country teams in the Fighting Owls Trail Invitational in Asheville, N.C., last Friday.

The Fighting Owls’ course was scenic but also difficult, beginning in Dam Pasture and leading through a hilly section of trail. Once again, senior Abby Stanley took third place for the women’s 5K course, finishing with a time of 22:18, and senior Meg Phillipo followed close behind with a fifth place time of 22:36.

“This race was a great bonding experience for the team,” Stanley said. “Meg and I run together a lot in practice, so I was happy she got fifth. Getting third was a nice bonus for the race conditions.”

The men began their 8K following the women’s race. Senior Aaron Iles finished first for the second week in a row, with a time of 29:27. “Aaron ran a smart, conservative and really solid race,” Stanley said regarding the men’s race. “It was great for the team to have him nail that top spot again.” The cross-country teams will compete tomorrow at Toccoa Falls College in Georgia for the TFC Eagle Invitational.