CLINTON, Miss. – The William Carey University men's cross-country team opened the 2026 season with a sixth-place finish at the MC Opener, hosted by Mississippi College.
 
Matthew McGuire led the Crusaders' effort, placing seventh overall with a time of 15:41. Luke Skinner followed with a 13th-place finish after crossing the line in 15:51.
 
Niklas Moilanen recorded a time of 17:58, while Nate Beard finished in 18:34. Julius Giller rounded out the William Carey runners with a time of 19:37.
 
The Crusaders will return to competition on Sept. 18 at the Southern Showcase, hosted by Jacksonville State in Huntsville, Alabama.