If Kansas University runners are looking for a cross country coach who waits idly at the finish as the race proceeds, they’re out of luck.
But if the Jayhawks are interested in a coach who runs with them step for step, then Stanley Redwine is going to be a very good fit.
Redwine, coaching his first meet since being hired May 25, watched the KU women place first and the men third in the Bob Timmons Invitational Saturday at Rim Rock Farm.
“The coaches are really dedicated to us,” said Laurie Lavoie, a KU freshman from Springfield, Mo., who won the women’s five-kilometer race in 19:57. “They’re very good at keeping us working hard.”
Kansas (27) defeated Oklahoma (46) and Wichita State (52) with a bevy of youth. Another freshman, Lauren Brownrigg, finished third, 13 seconds off Lavoie’s pace. The two newcomers did not expect to finish so high in their first collegiate meet, especially after hearing tales of the rigorous Rim Rock course, which played host to the NCAA Championships two years ago.
“I had a friend who raced in the championships,” Brownrigg said,”and I got an idea of how tough it was. The hills definitely make it tough. The gradual hills are usually the ones that get you the most, but there’s some pretty steep ones back there.”
The men’s team also had two strong finishes, but fell behind champ Truman State and runner-up Wichita State. KU’s Mark Menefee was second and teammate Brent Behrens finished third. TSU’s Andy Doering won the race in 25:54.
After he took a few minutes to cool down, Menefee spotted Redwine and asked him if the coach happened to know his time. Nothing personal, but Redwine was scurrying around the entire course rooting on every runner, regardless of placement.
“That’s my style,” Redwine said. “I want to see each individual. If I can help one out by screaming in their face, then it’s worth it. It keeps me in shape, as well.”
The Jayhawks looked to be in good shape. This was their only home meet of the season and Redwine was pleased how the women came out of the gate. The men were at a disadvantage without top runner Charlie Gruber. Gruber, according to Redwine, is being rested after”a long summer.” Menefee sat out last year with a knee injury.
“It was good to be back and racing again,” Menefee said. “Rim Rock’s a tough course, but at the same time it’s a cross country course. It’s supposed to be tough.”