Doperalski Dominates for Husker Harriers

Omaha, Neb. -- The Husker men and women competed in their first meet of the season at the Avaya Cross Country Classic in Omaha, Neb. The Husker women placed second with a total of 61 points behind fellow Division I competitor, Iowa, while the men’s team did not place in the team scoring. Other teams competing at the meet were from Hastings College, Midland College, Drake, Dordt and hosts Creighton University and the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

Battling the heat and hills of the Chalco Hills Recreation Area, sophomore Anne Shadle led the Husker women in their season opener by placing fourth with a time of 19:46 on the 5,000-meter course.

“Anne is way ahead of where she started at this time last year,” said head coach Jay Dirksen. “She had a good meet today, and if she stays competitive, she should have an outstanding season.”

Finishing sixth and seventh were newcomers Kayte Tranel and Kim Pancoast, respectively. Sophomore Hastings College transfer Tranel edged out freshman Pancoast by .49 seconds. Senior Monica Barger, the only senior of the group, placed 21st while newcomer freshman Michaela Lenihan placed 23rd. Sophomore Michele Steube finished 45th after battling a cold.

In the 8,000 meter men’s race, junior transfer Kyle Doperalski finished first (27:50) with sophomore Tim Williams following close behind in second (28:06).

“I feel very fortunate for the win,” Doperalski said. “Tim and I are constantly competing with each other at practice. I think for us it comes down to who recovers faster from the weekly practices. This week I did, next week Tim might.”

Rounding out the Husker men’s team were junior Marc Clinard placing sixth and freshman Eric Dall finishing 15th.

“I told both teams before the meet that today was more of a test drive than anything else,” Dirksen said. “The meet was a good way for the athletes to find out where they stand, what they need to do to improve and gain a little confidence for the next meet.”

The Huskers will take one week off before hosting the Woody Greeno/Nebraska Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Pioneers Park.