BETHANY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University women's cross country team opened its 2025 season on Thursday with a solid fifth-place team finish at the West Liberty Invitational, held at Bethany College.

The Hilltoppers posted 126 points to edge Clarion (127) in the 8-team field. Point Park captured the team title with 43 points, followed by Washington & Jefferson (68) and Charleston (76).

Freshman Alexis Wynn led the way for West Liberty, clocking 19:42.8 to place 14th overall in her collegiate debut. Junior Lacey Dimit wasn't far behind in 17th with a time of 19:48.4.

Another freshman, Gretchen House, impressed in her first race with a 20:12.0 for 24th, while classmates Katherine Rutherford (35th, 20:33.9) and Naomi Young (36th, 20:49.9) rounded out the Hilltoppers' scoring five. Senior Ally Hicks (38th, 21:04.7) and freshman McKenzie Upole (43rd, 21:18.3) added depth to the lineup.

Individually, Point Park's Cassondra O'Connor claimed the meet title, breaking the tape in 18:03.8.

The Hilltoppers will be back in action September 13, when they return to the Bethany course for the Bethany Invitational.