EWING, N.J. – The TCNJ women's cross country team got their season off to a flying start Friday, taking first place at the annual Blue and Gold Invitational.

Freshman Krista Purnell led the way for the Lions, placing 5^th overall with a time of 12:25.30. Leading the rest of the pride were sophomore Ava Biemuller and senior Noelle Falzone, who finished tied for 6^th in 12:29.30.

Rounding out TCNJ's scoring five were junior Naesha Gaedie (8^th, 12:29.50) and freshman Teagan Walker (9^th, 12:29.60). Close behind them were seniors Alex Grivas (10^th, 12:29.70) and Savannah Hodgens (11^th, 12:29.80).

Apart from Purnell and Walker, three other TCNJ freshmen runners made their debuts in Mia Zicchinella (13:08.90), Lilla Porter (13:16.40), and Kristen Smerdon (13:35.10). They finished 21^st, 22^nd, and 23^rd respectively.

It was a well-rounded performance for TCNJ, as the Lions finished 10 runners inside of the top 20. TCNJ logged 35 points to claim the win, placing well ahead of 2^nd-place Montclair State (56 points) and 3^rd-place Arcadia (73 points).

The Lions will stay in Ewing for their next competition, the Herb Lorenz Invitational, which will take place on Friday, September 12.