SALEM, Ore. (Oct. 4, 2025) – Just two weeks after hosting their home meet, the UC Santa Barbara Men's and Women's Cross Country teams are heading north to Oregon to compete in the Charles Bowles Invitational, hosted by Willamette University. This meet provides the Gauchos with the unique opportunity to compete against squads extending beyond the Big West, allowing UCSB to showcase their talent and depth on a broader stage in the Pacific Northwest. 

DETAILS
Race 1: Men's 8k at 9:30 am
Race 2: Women's 5k at 10:20 am
Location: McCulloch Stadium and Bush Park
Forecast: Partly cloudy with an average temperature of 67*, wind ranging from 5 to 10 mph
How to watch: follow along with finished results

LAST MEET
The UC Santa Barbara Cross Country squads were last seen in action in Lompoc, where they hosted the Gaucho Twilight, welcoming five visiting teams – including Big West rival Cal Poly. 

Senior Zachary Parker once again led the men's squad in a standout performance, finishing third overall with a time of 18:41.5 on the 8k course. With four Guachos placing in the top 10, the men's squad was able to secure a second place team finish.

On the women's side, freshman Addie Oversmith continued to impress, finishing fourth overall in the 5k with a time of 21:30.1. She was closely followed by teammates Danielle Hollander and Axelle Allanic, both finishing in the top 10 to help the team earn a second place finish.

COMING UP
After the journey back to the West Coast, the Gauchos will have just two weeks to prepare for the Bronco Invitational, hosted by Santa Clara University on Oct. 18. The men are set to compete on the 8k course at Baylands Regional Park, at 8:45 am. The women will shortly follow at 9:30 am, on the 6k course.