University of South Alabama Athletics

09/16/05– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AZALEA CITY CLASSIC BEGINS THIS WEEKEND
CONTACT: Dwayne Gatlin

MOBILE, Ala. - The Azalea City Classic makes its return to the University of South Alabama after being washed out by Hurricane Ivan in 2004. This year's meet was threatened by the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, but, USA's grounds staff has been hard at work removing debris from the course.

Nearly 500 athletes from 21 middle schools, high schools and universities will race this weekend. Middle and High Schools from Alabama and Florida will compete, running through the trails on South Alabama's campus. The Middle School and Junior Varsity High School teams will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. The Varsity High School teams will be in action on Saturday begining at 7:30 a.m.

All-American Tonny Okello, All-Sun Belt Conference Harry Larubi, and newcomer Vincent Rono (third in the 2005 World University Games) will lead USA's mens squad and school Steeplechase record-holder Cassandra Perkins and Junior Co-Captains Ajoke Odumosu and Lauren Lemon look to pace the women's team as they go against a select number of collegiate teams. The university section begins at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.

The Middle School and Junior Varsity course will be 3K (1.9 mile). Varsity and University athletes wil run the 5K (3.1mile) race course. Both races will begin and end behind the Health Services Building near USA's Health Services Drive. Girls/Women's competition will precede Boys/Men's races.

CLICK HERE FOR THE 2005 SEASON PREVIEW