Sept. 8, 2003

FAIRFAX, Va. - The George Mason University women's cross country team open its respective 2003 season Saturday at the Towson Invitational in Towson, MD.

Under fifth year head coach Angie Taylor, the George Mason women's team will be led by senior Dana Early (Milmont Park, PA/Ridley) and junior Nicole Holifield (Hurley, MS/East Central/Mississippi College). Sophomore Sara Hines (Strasburg, VA/Strasburg) paced the Patriots in their season opener at the Navy Invitational last year, placing 49th over the 5,000-meter course in 20 minutes, 32.44 seconds (20:32.44), and is also expected to contribute greatly to the 2003 squad.

Other players to watch include junior Ryann Holmes (Largo, MD/Largo Senior) and sophomore Jessica Young (Alexandria, VA/Hayfield).