University of Tampa Set to Host 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 several top men's and women's teams. The race is scheduled for Friday at Dover Trails.

The men's race will begin at 5:45 p.m., followed by the women's race at 6:20 p.m. The men's race will be 3.92 miles as the women will run 3.22 miles.

In addition to UT, the meet will also feature Bethune-Cookman, Embry-Riddle, Florida Southern, Florida Tech, Palm Beach Atlantic, Pasco-Hernando Community College, South Florida, Central Florida and Valdosta State.

This marks the season opener for both UT teams, as the Spartan women are ranked first in the South Region. The Spartan men are also listed in the regional rankings, coming in at number six. Tampa's women have won eight consecutive NCAA South Region titles, as its men are coming off a fourth place showing in 2014.

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.

Fans may follow University of Tampa athletics on Twitter and Instagram (@tampaspartans) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/tampaspartans). UT also offers blAst, a free text messaging service that sends text alerts following all Spartan events. To sign up, please register at www.tampaspartans.com.