Memphis, September 2, 2025
News Summary
The University of Memphis cross country teams showcased their talent at the City Auto Memphis Twilight Classic, with the men’s team finishing third out of 12 and the women’s team placing sixth out of 13 in their respective races. Notable performances included Leonardo Mazzoni’s ninth-place finish for the men and Ann Marie Braese’s 17th-place finish for the women. The event marked the debut for new head coach Charles Jones, who expressed optimism for the season ahead. The teams’ next competition is set for the Rhodes Invitational.
Memphis
The University of Memphis cross country teams delivered strong performances at the City Auto Memphis Twilight Classic, held at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex on August 29-30, 2025. The meet consisted of both high school and collegiate races, with college competitions starting late in the evening, around 9:20 PM.
Men’s Team Performance
The men’s team achieved a commendable third place finish out of 12 participating teams in the 4-mile race. They placed behind Middle Tennessee State, which secured first place, and Ole Miss in second. Leonardo Mazzoni was a standout performer for the team, securing a ninth place finish with a time of 19:28.95. Close on his heels was Kenny Guy, who finished in tenth place with a time of 19:29.85.
In addition to Mazzoni and Guy, several runners on the men’s team set personal bests in the 4-mile run. Robert Randall recorded a time of 20:00.81, while Benjamin Huey crossed the line at 21:37.66, marking his own personal best as well.
Women’s Team Performance
The women’s team completed the event with a sixth place finish out of 13 teams in the 5K run, with Mississippi State taking the top spot and Ole Miss coming in second. Ann Marie Braese emerged as the team’s highest-placed runner, finishing 17th with a time of 18:10.14, which was also a personal best for her. Following Braese, Reese McDevitt finished in 22nd place with a time of 18:30.20.
Other notable performances from female runners included Brooke Doyle, who completed the race in 20:05.69, Ava Beary finishing at 20:25.49, and Cassidy Yaley with a time of 21:27.80, all recording personal bests during the meet.
Coaching Changes
The City Auto Memphis Twilight Classic marks the first competition for new head coach Charles Jones, a former cross-country and track athlete at Texas Tech. Jones, who previously won the Big 12 championship in the 800m, expressed optimism about the team’s future following the successful event.
Upcoming Events
Looking ahead, the University of Memphis cross country teams will compete next in the Rhodes Invitational at Rhodes College on September 20th, aiming to build on their early season successes.
Key Takeaways
- Men’s Team: 3rd out of 12 teams in 4-mile race
- Women’s Team: 6th out of 13 teams in 5K race
- Next Meet: Rhodes Invitational on September 20th
FAQ
What was the overall result for the University of Memphis men’s cross country team at the City Auto Memphis Twilight Classic?
The men’s team finished 3rd overall out of 12 teams in the 4-mile race.
Who was the top performer in the men’s race?
Leonardo Mazzoni led the men with a 9th place finish and a time of 19:28.95.
How did the women’s team perform in their race?
The women’s team placed 6th overall out of 13 teams in the 5K run with Ann Marie Braese achieving the best individual finish at 17th.
What is the next event for the University of Memphis cross country teams?
The next meet is the Rhodes Invitational at Rhodes College on September 20th.
Who is the new coach for the University of Memphis cross country team?
The new head coach is Charles Jones, a former athlete who competed at Texas Tech.
Key Features Chart
| Category | Men’s Team | Women’s Team |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Finish | 3rd out of 12 | 6th out of 13 |
| Top Performer | Leonardo Mazzoni (9th, 19:28.95) | Ann Marie Braese (17th, 18:10.14) |
| Upcoming Event | Rhodes Invitational on September 20th | |
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Additional Resources
- University of Memphis: Cross Country Opens Season at the City Auto Memphis Twilight Classic
- University of Memphis: Two Tigers Finish Top Ten at City Auto Memphis Twilight Classic
- Daily Helmsman: Memphis Cross Country Opens Season with the City Auto Memphis Twilight XC Classic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cross Country
- Google News: Memphis Cross Country Twilight
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
