The Rio Hondo Cross Country team traveled to Arroyo Verde Park in Ventura on August 30 for the annual Ventura Invitational.

Even though all of the women from the Rio Hondo team didn’t compete, the Lady Roadrunners were confident going into the tournament.

Going against the top schools in California, the Men’s cross country team finished seventh while racing against schools like Mount San Antonio and College of the Canyons. Competing without freshman standouts Diego Ibarra, Edson Escamillia, Jose Leon and Charlie Gonzalez, led the Roadrunners placing of 21st overall in the men’s four mile run with a time of 24:56.13.

Gonzalez and Kevin Medina, Mount San Antonio College, ended up with a time of 24:53.53 as they continuously exchanged leads throughout the difficult mountainous course which included a thrilling competitive finish.

Freshman Jorge Castro finished 34th overall in his first race for Rio Hondo.

This triumphant team finish would not have been finished with the efforts of teammates Jonathan Dona (31:03), Jesus Preciado (31:34.01) and Augustin Arias with a time of (32:30.32).

Rio Hondo’s women’s cross country team competed only partially with the team. Freshman, Elaine Anzaldo led the Roadrunners with a 38th placing with a time of (29:39.41). Edith Najera followed Anzaldo placing 39th with a time of (30:07.14).