Eastern’s cross country teams didn’t come out on top this weekend, but, considering each teams’ conditions, they pulled off some stunning performances.

The men finished second to the 15th-ranked Air Force Academy by 50 points and were ahead of third place Indiana State by 33 points. The women finished with a solid fifth place performance.

The men’s team knew Air Force Academy would bring some tough competition, but it still hoped to run with them. The Falcons took the first six places and made it near impossible for any of the teams to contend for the top spot.

“We knew coming in they would bring tough competition,” said senior Jeff Jonaitis. “We had an off day though. I think any other day we could compete with them.”

Considering all ailments, the men’s performance was up to par.

Many of the men said their legs felt tired from the hard training in the past weeks, and Jonaitis said he was coming off of a twisted ankle.

Eastern head coach John McInerney said his men ran a little tired and didn’t look as sharp as usual.

“Even though I would’ve liked to see us compete a little more with Air Force, the men had some individuals who really stepped up,” McInerney said.

The women’s team faced some of the same trials as the men. Some were tired and a few of the women competed with colds.

Although the team didn’t place where they wanted to, Stephanie Bone, Amanda Schutte and Deb Tygrett ran exactly where they wanted to.

“I kept my eye on Angie (Simone) and Steph the whole time,” said junior Amanda Schutte. “The first kilometer was a little tough, but I felt really good and tried to stay with the lead pack the whole time.”

As for the rest of the team, Bone said “A lot are tired from the really hard couple weeks of practice. It didn’t pay off today, but it will reward us big in the end, when it’s key.”

McInerney’s emotions were mixed about the women’s team performance, but he said he was happy with the efforts put forth by individuals.

In the next couple weeks McInerney wants to get his runners into some championship training.

“We’ll be training hard, but resting, and concentrating on regaining health for the big OVC race,” said McInerney.