Hailey
The Emporia State University (ESU) Hornets cross country teams have officially started their preparations for the 2025 running season. Both the men’s and women’s teams began their first training session bright and early at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025.
This marks the start of a busy and exciting preseason for the Hornets as they work toward improving their performance and aiming for success in the upcoming competitions.
This year’s training camp includes not only regular runs and workouts but also specialized performance testing, overnight camping trips, and scenic runs around Kansas landmarks.
First Day of Practice – August 14, 2025
The very first training session took place on Thursday morning when both teams gathered for an early workout. Early morning practices are common in cross country training as they help runners adapt to cooler temperatures, build discipline, and prepare for early race starts during the season.
Coaches emphasized team bonding and mental toughness from day one, making sure every athlete understands the hard work and dedication required for the months ahead.
Trip to Lawrence, Kansas – August 15, 2025
On Friday, August 15, the Hornets will travel to Lawrence, Kansas for a comprehensive running assessment at RunStrong, a training program at LMH Health. These assessments are designed to measure:
- Endurance levels
- Running form
- Speed and stamina
- Injury risk factors
After the assessments, the teams will head to Clinton Lake for an afternoon practice session. The trip will also include an overnight camping experience, giving the athletes a chance to relax, bond, and mentally prepare for the season.
The next morning, runners will take part in a morning run around Clinton Lake before heading back to Emporia.
Regular Practice Schedule
Regular training sessions will officially begin on Monday, August 18, 2025. These practices will continue daily as the teams prepare for their first competitive events. Workouts will include:
- Long-distance endurance runs
- Interval training for speed
- Hill running for strength
- Team strategy drills
- Recovery and stretching sessions
The goal is to improve overall performance and ensure all runners are in peak condition for the start of the competitive season.
First Competition – ESU Alumni Run & Time Trial
Before the official season kicks off, the Hornets will hold the ESU Alumni Run and Time Trial on Friday, August 29, 2025 at Champions Landing. This event serves as a warm-up race, allowing coaches to:
- Evaluate athletes’ fitness levels
- Compare times with previous seasons
- Decide the travel roster for the first major meet
Official Season Opener – JK Gold Classic
The first official race for the Emporia State cross country teams will be the JK Gold Classic on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas. This race will bring together competitive college teams from across the region, providing the Hornets with a true test of their preseason training.
Returning Star Runners – Men’s Team
The Hornet men’s team will benefit from the return of three of their top four runners from last season. Among them is sophomore Dylan Hunter, who was the top finisher for Emporia State at both the MIAA Championships and the NCAA Central Regional last year.
His performance, along with the experience of other returning athletes, will be key to the team’s success.
Returning Star Runners – Women’s Team
The women’s team is equally strong, with three of the top five runners from last season returning. Leading them is senior Mason Bina, who was the top finisher for ESU in all six of her races last season. Her consistency and leadership will be vital as the Hornets aim for better placements this year.
Important Dates for Emporia State Cross Country 2025
| Date | Event | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14, 2025 | First Day of Practice | Emporia, KS | Early morning session at 6:00 a.m. |
| Aug 15, 2025 | RunStrong Assessments & Clinton Lake Camp | Lawrence, KS | Includes overnight camping & morning run |
| Aug 18, 2025 | Regular Practices Begin | Emporia, KS | Daily sessions to build endurance & speed |
| Aug 29, 2025 | ESU Alumni Run & Time Trial | Champions Landing, KS | Warm-up race before official season start |
| Sep 6, 2025 | JK Gold Classic – First Official Competition | Wichita, KS | Competitive race against other universities |
The Emporia State Hornets cross country teams are entering the 2025 season with renewed energy, experienced runners, and a well-structured training plan.
From early morning runs to performance testing and team bonding activities, every part of the camp is designed to prepare athletes for a challenging but promising season. With star runners like Dylan Hunter and Mason Bina leading the way, fans can expect strong performances and exciting races ahead.