BLACKSBURG, Va. (Sept. 18, 2026) - In an ideal environment, cross country runners gradually get faster as the season progresses. Multiple Buccaneers checked that box on Friday.

The ETSU men's cross country team finished runner-up at the Hokie Invitational on Friday behind four personal bests in the 8k run.

Garrett Hawkins once again led ETSU across the line, this time in fourth with a personal best 24:42.9, surpassing his previous best of 24:51.4 in the 8k at the Southern Showcase on September 12, 2025. The sophomore has now posted consecutive top-five finishes, and fourth is the best finish in any race in his college career. He was followed home by junior Hayden Waleski in 8th at 25:06.9, surpassing his previous best of 25:38.7 two weeks ago at the USC Upstate Eye Opener.

Wesley Luisi set a personal best with a 25:46.3, good for 14th and superior to his previous mark of 25:49.3 at the Louisville Classic on October 4, 2025. Freshman Caden Costello slashed 92 seconds off his 8k time in his second collegiate race with a 26:08.0, good for 18th. Nolan Pedota rounded out the scoring places with a 26:13.6 to come home 20th.

The Bucs return to action at the Louisville XC Classic on October 3 bright and early at 9 a.m.

For more information on ETSU men's cross country, go to ETSUBucs.com.