Spartans Set to Host UT Early Bird Classic

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa cross country program is set to host the annual UT Early Bird Classic, which will feature a total of 20 teams that will compete in the men's and women's races. The race is scheduled for Friday at Brandon Trails.

The event will begin at 6 p.m. with the women's 5K followed by the four mile men's race at 6:30 p.m.

In addition to Tampa, participating teams include Ave Maria, Embry Riddle, Florida College, Florida Tech, Johnson & Wales, Pasco-Hernando CC, Saint Leo, Warner and Webber International.

UT's women, which have won the race two straight years, finished 10th at the NCAA Championships in 2008. The Spartan men also competed and are coming off a NCAA South Regional appearance.

Directions to the Sydney Dover Trail Park are as follows:
Take I-75 to Brandon exit. Go east on Highway 60 where the park is located on the left side of the street. The entrance is just past Sydney Washer Road.