Randolph, VT - Junior Rachel Gilbert (East Burke, VT) ran her first competitive race for the Vermont State University Lyndon women's cross country team on Saturday morning.  Gilbert completed the 5K Vermont State University Randolph course in 29:42.62, good for 61st place at the annual Silloway Maple Syrup Challenge.

Claire Palmer of Middlebury College took individaul honors, finishing with a time of 19:25.44.  Middlebury ran away with the team championship, with the Panthers taking the top 14 places.

VTSU Lyndon cross country coach Chris Chichester was pleased with Gilbert's effort.  "Rachel tackled the tough 5k course with a consistent pace.  Her time and placing were very solid and this is a great start to the women's season."

Gilbert and the Hornets will return to training.  The next scheduled race is the North Atlantic Conference preview on October 4th, hosted by Husson University.