Michigan cross country fans all over are advised to mark Nov. 1, on their calendars.
That's the day you could see John Mortimer, Kevin Sullivan and the rest of the Michigan men's cross country team hoisting the Big Ten championship trophy in the air.
This year the Wolverines have an excellent chance of taking the crown in this year's Big Ten championship meet. But Michigan must be wary of the return of a familiar enemy - Wisconsin.
The Badgers have dominated the Big Ten in this era, winning 14 of the past 16 titles, dating back to 1981.
Illinois stole the 1984 crown, edging out both Michigan and Wisconsin by four and six points, respectively. In 1993, the title returned to Ann Arbor, as Sullivan led the Wolverines to a 16-point victory.
Michigan coach Ron Warhurst is very optimistic about his team's chances of winning the title.
The meet will be held in Columbus on Ohio State's home course.
"It's a flat eight-kilometer course," Warhurst said. "It's going to be perfect for us."
October will be crucial to the success of the Wolverines. Right now, Warhurst has the squad running hard in preparation for the end of the season.
A few weeks before the Big Tens, the runners will taper, cutting down their mileage to rest for the all-important meet that lies ahead.
"I'm encouraged by the team's chances," Mortimer said, "We have probably the best top-six in team history."
The Wolverines have respect for the successful Wisconsin tradition, but think they have the winning edge.
"They (Wisconsin) don't have the top two runners in the country," Michigan freshman Sam Dorri said.
Nevertheless, Warhurst admits there are some issues to address before the Wolverines battle the Badgers.
"We need to get our 1-5 (pack time) under a minute," Warhurst said.
The Wolverines have been impressive so far. After capturing first place at the Jayhawk Invitational, they repeated the feat at the Illinois Invitational.
The Badgers don't disappear after the Big Ten meet, however. The Wolverines will see them at the district meet, leading up to the NCAA championships in South Carolina on Nov. 24.
09-30-97
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