BETHANY, W.Va. — After having their season-opening meet postponed due to weather, the West Liberty University men's and women's cross country teams will finally get their 2026 campaigns underway Saturday at the Bethany Invitational.

The women's 6K and men's 8K races are now scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Bethany Cross Country Course.

The Hilltoppers will compete against a field that includes host Bethany, Saint Vincent, La Roche, Franciscan and Waynesburg, among other teams.

West Liberty's women return a veteran leader in senior Lacey Dimit, who finished sixth at last year's Bethany Invitational in 24:13.2. She will be joined by several runners who gained valuable collegiate experience last season, including Alexis Wynn, Naomi Young, Gretchen House, McKenzie Upole, Emily Dunlevy and Katherine Rutherford.

The Hilltoppers also welcome back Makayla Carter, who missed last season while recovering from an ACL injury.

On the men's side, sophomore Joshua Gill returns after winning last year's Bethany Invitational 8K in 26:37.0. Sophomore Finlay Lorimer also returns after placing seventh in that race, while Zachary Workman provides additional veteran leadership.

Saturday's meet will give both Hilltopper teams their first opportunity to measure the progress made during preseason training.

"We're really working on building throughout the season so we can have our best races at the end of the season," head coach Michael Guinn II said.

After an extra week of preparation, the Hilltoppers are finally ready to put that work to the test.




West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.