The Wabash College cross country team captured the 2013 "Little State" crown at Indiana University on Friday to earn their first Little State title since 2010.
The Indiana Intercollegiate meet pits each Indiana college or university against one another. The "Big State" title is awarded to the top division one program, while the Little State title is awarded to the top division two, division three, or NAIA team.
The varsity race was paced up front early by a large group from Indiana University, while the Red Pack from Wabash lurked behind. As the race went on, the competition stretched out, but Wabash was able to hang onto their strong start. The team was led by Billy McManus, who placed third in the Little State competition with a time of 25:58.95. McManus was followed closely by Dalton Boyer in fifth place, crossing the finish line in 26:08.17. Nick Boyce finished 10th (26:33.76), with Cordell Lewis hot on his heels less than four seconds behind in 11th place (26:37.08). Adam Togami toured the course in 26:47.28, good for 13th place. Jarred Burris helped his teammates by being the sixth man in 15th place (26:59.85). Ryan Horner grabbed 23rd place (27:16.16) as the seven man.
With the strong finishes, the team scored 42 points to take the team title, edging the University of Indianapolis in second place with 45 points. Manchester University placed third with 75 points.
Team scoring was unavailable for the open race, but the team had another strong showing from their second group. Fabian House led the way for the Little Giants, placing first among non-DI opponents and 17th overall in the open race with a time of 27:06.40. The race combined the non-varsity squads from each school, leaving House to contend with many of Indiana University's squad as well as the other scholarship programs.
After beating their in-state competition, the Little Giants get a chance to see their national competition at Pre-Nationals October 5. The meet is hosted by Hanover College on the same course that the DIII championships will be held later in the season on November 23. A portion of the team will also compete at the Notre Dame Invitational on Friday, October 4.