Purrier picks up a big win at Pre-Nationals

By Doug Binder, DyeStat Editor

New Hampshire's Elinor Purrier has become an NCAA title contender after her victory Saturday over Missouri's reigning champion, Karissa Schweizer, at Pre-Nationals outside Louisville, Ky. 

Purrier outkicked Schweizer to win the 6-kilometer women's Red race in 19 minutes, 28.5 seconds. Schweizer was next in 19:29.7.

"I felt pretty good in the race and gave myself a chance," Purrier said. "I just tried to use my speed in the end. It's still really early in the season, so there's still a lot of work to do."

The Oregon women sat atop the standings, led by Katie Rainsberger's fourth-place finish, with 63 points. Colorado was next with 81 points and Arkansas was third with 148.

Rory Linkletter led BYU to a dominant team victory with an individual win over 8 kilometers (23:08.4). The Cougars put five in the top 15 and finished with 41 points. Colorado was with 118 points and Oregon was third with 129.

Amon Kemboi and Lawrence Kipkoech from Campbell took it out hard, splitting 9:12 through two miles.

Peter Seufer of Virginia Tech, who ended up second, led the chase pack. The last 300 was a dogfight in which Linkletter emerged with the best kick. Kemboi finished third.