CARROLLTON, Ga.- The University of West Georgia men's cross country team is set to open its 2026 campaign on Friday at the Foothills Invitational at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama, at 10 a.m. The meet marks the Wolves' first race of the season and their only 5K of the year.

The Wolves return a strong group of experienced runners, led by junior Noah Anderson, who is expected to lead the pack for UWG. Anderson owns a personal-best time of 15:41.9, which ranks third all-time in West Georgia history in the 5K.

Sophomore Alex Njoroge also returns following an impressive freshman season. Njoroge recorded a time of 15:54.6 in his first collegiate race, placing him fifth all-time in UWG history in the 5K. He will look to build on that strong debut as he begins his sophomore campaign.

The Wolves also feature three seniors who bring valuable experience to the lineup. Gabriel Wrye owns a personal best of 16:40.3, while Tyler Jones enters the season with a best of 16:41.8. Reed Crabtree rounds out the senior group with a personal-best time of 17:00.1.

In addition to the veteran group, four freshmen are set to make their collegiate debuts at the Foothills Invitational. Laton Chambers from Carrollton, Ga., enters UWG after placing fourth in the 5K at the Big Peach Mustang Stampede with a time of 16:56.3. Cash Driggers from Vidalia, Ga., recorded a personal-best 5K time of 16:44.2 at the GHSA 1A Sectionals. Jackson Harrell from Cochran, Ga., enters the season after winning the 5K at the Bleckley's Last Chance Sectional Tune-up Invitational with a time of 16:36.0 and capturing the 5K title at the GHSA 1A Division 1 Sectional 2 with a personal-best time of 16:28.0. Brennan Weatherington from Canton, Ga., enters UWG after recording a personal-best 5K time of 16:08.9 at the Alexander/ASICS Invitational.

UWG is led by Head Coach Ryan Bailey, who enters his ninth season leading the Wolves' cross country and track & field programs.

Fans can keep track of all the action through the live results for the Foothills Invitational. UWG fans can also stay connected with Cross Country throughout the meet by following @uwgxctf on Instagram and @UWGTrack on X for live updates and final results.