To no one's surprise, perennial power Southwester College easily outdistanced the field to win both divisions.

"This was our first opportunity to run against other conference teams, so we were able to get an early view of some of the others we 'll battle with throughout the season," coach Karol Hunt said.

The Tabor women were again led by the 1-2-3 punch of Heidi Schmidt, who finished 13th in 22 minutes, 15 seconds, Bridgett Stevens, 21st in 22:57 and Amber Wiens, 37th in 23:43.

Also competing for Tabor were Tiffany Stevens (41st, 23:49), Shelby Miller (42nd, 23:50), Ashley Schmidt (44th, 23:53) and Rebekah Lockhart (62nd, 25:47).

"I really like the effort of the women," Hunt said. "The times were a little off, but his course did not appear to be a fast one."

The Bluejay men were led by Jeff Anenson, who placed 44th in 30:11. Right behind were Kyle Larson, 47th in 30:18, Kevin Larson, 48th in 30:19, and Matt Lynam, 50th in 30:24.

Also competing for Tabor were Zac Remboldt (67th, 31:55, Richard Galli (68th, 32:00), Brandon Voth (84th, 33:40) and Will Higerd (85th, (33:48).

"Jeff, Kyle, Kevin and Matt were all close to the 30-minute mark, which is positive for us on this course," Hunt said. "I was pleased with the way they battled and pushed each other.

"Zac and Richard ran their first 8K races today and learned a lot," she added. "If they continue to work hard, they will close the gap with the upper class runners."

The Bluejays will travel Saturday to McPherson. The women are scheduled to run at 10:30 a.m. and the men at 11:15 a.m.