Laurinburg, NC-The Salem College cross country opened their 2014 campaign by finishing in fourth at the St. Andrew's Invitational 5K. Stephanie Verdi finished in third overall and as the top finisher for Salem. The meet consisted of NAIA and NCAA DIII opponents.

Verdi finished in 21:35.2 and was just 35 seconds out of first place. She beat all of the runners from Meredith. Audrey Wierda was the second finisher for Salem and 15th overall (23:33.5). Amanda Johnson came across the line next for Salem and was 32nd overall (25:22.8). Cristi Magracia and Tali Schroeder finished out the top five for Salem.

The Spirits will compete again next week at Barton in Wilson, NC.

St. Andrew's Team Results:

Columbia 36 (1,2,4,8,21) 22

Meredith 38 (5,6,7,9,11,) 12,14

Bob Jones 81 (10,16,17,18,20) 23,24

Salem 102 (3,15,27,28,29) 30

St. Andrews 114 (13,19,25,26,31) 32