ITHACA, N.Y. — The annual John Reif Memorial Cross Country Meet is set to take place this Friday, October 24, at 5 p.m. on Cornell University's Moakley Course. This annual event honors the legacy of John Reif, a 1986 graduate of Cornell and competitive member of cross country and track who lost his life too soon in a training accident in 1987. 

The meet will feature both men's and women's races, with teams from Cornell, Syracuse, and Colgate competing. The Moakley Course, located on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, offers a scenic and challenging layout.

Last year's meet saw strong performances from the Big Red, with Hannah Kersten leading the women's team and Rithikh Prakash pacing the men's squad. Kersten finished third with a time of 18:06.7, while Prakash placed seventh with a time of 15:02.8. Both runners will return this year, bringing valuable experience and leadership to their respective teams.

Syracuse and Colgate will also field competitive teams. The Orange, known for their depth and speed, will look to challenge Cornell on their home course. Colgate, with a history of strong individual performances, aims to make a statement in the team competition.

As the final home meet before the Ivy League Heptagonal Championships, the John Reif Memorial serves as an important tune-up for the Big Red. 

Spectators are encouraged to attend and support the athletes as they compete in this storied event. Admission is free, and the Moakley Course provides excellent viewing opportunities for fans.