March 23, 2005

Winston-Salem, NC - Director of Wake Forest track and field and head cross country coach Annie Bennett guided the United States women's team at the World Cross Country Championship last weekend. The Americans finished in third place, to bring home a bronze medal.

The women's short course team (4km) was comprised of six members: Lauren Fleshman, Blake Russell, Shalane Flanagan, Shayne Culpepper, Amy Mortimer and Melissa Buttry.

"The experience was simply amazing," said Bennett. "I got to spend time with Olympians and their coaches. I had the opportunity to lend some insight to the 8k team. The women's 4k team came with a mission to medal, which they did. My job with them was to just make sure they had what they needed and help them along in their quest. I felt we all gained from the experience. I am grateful to have been given such an opportunity."

Matt Kerr, an assistant with the track program at Wake Forest, competed for the Canadian men's team, which placed ninth overall. Kerr placed 81st individually in the men's short race.