Harriers run home to face No. 4 Washington

DAVID KATZ/Daily

Michigan has been the first to the finish line more times than not this season. The Wolverines host an invitational Sunday.

By Rhonda Gilmer

Daily Sports Writer

This weekend the Michigan women's cross country team will finally have the crowd in its corner as it plays host for the Wolverine Interregional. The meet - which takes place Sunday - will be held at the Michigan golf course starting at 10:30 a.m.

Washington, James Madison, and La Salle will be providing the competition for the Wolverines. This meet marks the only opportunity the Wolverines will have to run in front of the home fans this season.

No. 4 Washington is a strong opponent for the Wolverines and should be good preparation for Big Ten competition.

"We feel that if we continue to make progress on what we've done up to this point it gives us the opportunity to go out there and see how we match up against a truly elite program," Michigan coach Mike McGuire said.

This meet will give the Wolverines a chance to give more runners some experience. Instead of the usual 12 runners competing the Wolverines will suit up an additional two to three runners for the meet.

In the past, the Wolverines have competed against a greater number of teams during the Wolverine Interregional. Things are a little different this year, because a pre-national meet for women's cross country is also taking place this week.

"Unfortunately, more teams have opted to go there than compete in the Wolverine Interregional," McGuire said.

Staying at home this weekend might be best for the Wolverines. Currently, they have a lot of sick and injured runners.

"Time is our biggest ally in getting better," McGuire said.

Michigan Golf Course

Sunday

Who: Michigan women's cross country hosts the Wolverine Interregional.

When: 10:30 a.m.

Latest: The Wolverines aim for their fourth win in five meets this season.

Off and running

The Michigan women's cross country team is sprinting out of the gate. The Wolverines return to the host their Interregional with three wins under their belt in four meets thus far.

Date Event Michigan's finish

Sept. 2 Eastern Michigan Open Non-Scoring

Sept. 9 Miami Invitational First of 9

Sept. 16 Spiked Shoe Invitational First of 25

Sept. 23 William & Mary Invit. First of 11

Oct. 6 Notre Dame Invitational Second of 31