Hale and Chiang Dominate the Field at Brewton Parker Invitational
Mount Vernon, GA — Under gray skies and a steady drizzle, the FSCJ Manta Rays turned the Brewton Parker Invitational into their personal showcase, with Mei Chiang and Benjamin Hale delivering commanding victories that left no doubt about their form heading into the championship stretch.
In the men's 8,000 meters, Brewton Parker's front pack came out swinging, setting a blistering early tempo. But halfway through the rolling, rain-soaked course, Hale shifted gears and unleashed a surge that shattered the field. By the time he hit the finish chute, the sophomore Manta Ray had carved out a 21-second margin, crossing in a season-best 27:59.7. Behind him, teammate Cole Fleming battled through for a strong finish, while Noah Blake Looney, Edward Julian, Spencer Middleton, and David Beasley all turned in gutsy efforts — with Looney and Beasley clocking season bests and personal records.
The women's race was all Mei Chiang, all day. The reigning FCSAA Runner of the Week wasted no time asserting control, charging to the front from the opening stride and never looking back. Chiang broke the tape with a 1:44 lead over teammate Sydney Fallin, sealing another statement win on her breakout season. Lauren Hughes and Krista Lovely also notched season-best times, signaling a team trending upward at the right moment.
"Mei and Ben looked very strong today," said Head Coach Jody Hale. "Mei's racing like a contender every weekend. And Ben and Cole have been trading blows all season — UNF went to Cole, Valdosta to Ben, Embry-Riddle to Cole, and now Ben's back on top. That kind of competition is pushing everyone forward."
The Manta Rays won't have long to rest. They're back on the course Friday, October 3, for the 18th Annual Alligator Lake Invitational in Lake City, Florida, where the men's 8k kicks off at 8:00 a.m., followed by the women's 5k at 9:00 a.m.
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