OXFORD, AL-- The Georgia State cross country team made a strong start to the 2024 season, securing a commendable sixth-place finish out of twenty teams at the Foothills Invitational on Friday evening.

Junior Ana Cubillo led the way for Georgia State, finishing the 5000-meter course with a time of 19:24.24, setting the pace for her teammates and earning a notable individual performance. Sophomore Mencia Abaigar followed closely, clocking in at 19:34.79 and securing the second spot on the Panthers' leaderboard.

Sophomore Julia Dura also made a significant impact in her season opener, completing the race in 20:03.80. Senior Julie Tonon, in her final season, crossed the finish line with a time of 20:18.12. Sophomore Laure Kidukula, competing in her fifth cross country meet for the Panthers, posted a time of 20:30.18. Freshman Ruqayyah Byrd marked her debut with a time of 25:17.55, showing great potential for the future.

The Panthers are set to hit the trails Sept. 21 in Mercer's MCA/Julius Johnson Invitational at the Georgia Premier Cross Country Course.