MACON, Ga. – The Young Harris men’s cross country team took fifth Saturday at the Ninth Annual Mercer Runfit Sports Invitational at the Georgia Industrial Children’s Home.

The Mountain Lions garnered 180 points, while host Mercer won the even with 15 points. Georgia College & State University was second with 53, followed by Darton College (78) and Montevallo (156). Valdosta State (180), Georgia Southern Running Club (321), Edward Waters College (323), Armstrong Atlantic State (335), Reinhardt College (340), Gordon College (356), LaGrange College (389) and Paine College (444) rounded out the 13-team field.

Brandon Banks was the first Young Harris runner to cross the line in the 8K race, coming in 26^th in 29:22. Tyler Gunnin placed 35^th in 30:25.4, while Terry Miller (31:06.5) and Trent Jones (31:07.5) came in 44^th and 45^th, respectively. Tim Montgomery took 49^th in 31:20 and Will Clements rounded out the individual running for the Mountain Lions by taking 69^th in 33:10.4.

Chris Svidesskis of Mercer won the meet, coming in 27:02.3.

Young Harris returns to action Saturday, Oct. 2 in Cary, N.C., to take part in the Nike Great Run.