Louisville KY, October 6, 2025
Bellarmine University’s cross country team made a strong showing at the Swags Louisville XC Classic, with freshmen Hooten and Oesterling achieving impressive times among stiff competition. The men’s team finished 9th, while the women’s team placed 7th overall. These results indicate a promising start to the season as the team aims for regional qualification in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.
Bellarmine Cross Country Athletes Excel at Swags Louisville XC Classic
Louisville, KY – Freshmen runners from Bellarmine University’s cross country team delivered standout performances at the recent Swags Louisville XC Classic, achieving all-time top-50 marks that highlight the program’s growing strength. These results came during a meet hosted at Fern Creek Traditional High School, where 150 athletes competed across various divisions.
Key Performances from Freshmen Standouts
The most notable achievements belonged to freshmen Hooten and Oesterling on the men’s side. Hooten completed the 8K course in 25:14, securing 22nd place overall and breaking into the program’s top 30 historical list. Oesterling followed closely with a time of 25:28, finishing 28th and earning a spot in the top 40 all-time rankings for Bellarmine. These personal bests signal a promising start for the newcomers as the team builds momentum early in the season.
The women’s team showed solid depth, placing 7th out of 12 teams with a total of 189 points. Their collective effort contributed to a competitive showing against regional opponents, demonstrating improved endurance and pacing.
Men’s Team Results and Leadership
Bellarmine’s men’s squad finished 9th in their division, with senior captain Liam Ford leading the way. Ford clocked a 26:02 in the 8K, setting the tone for the group’s performance. His experience helped anchor the team amid challenging conditions on the course, which included varied terrain typical of Louisville-area meets.
These outcomes reflect the team’s preparation under their coaching staff, who emphasized consistent training to yield faster times. The freshmen’s breakthroughs, in particular, boosted the overall team morale and positioned Bellarmine as a contender within their conference.
Context of the Swags Louisville XC Classic
The Swags Louisville XC Classic serves as an early-season benchmark for many programs in the region, drawing teams from Kentucky and surrounding states. Held at Fern Creek Traditional High School, the event featured 150 competitors vying for top spots and valuable experience. For Bellarmine, this meet provided a chance to test strategies ahead of tougher competitions.
As members of the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC), the Knights are focused on qualifying for regionals. Their recent times indicate potential for further gains, especially with upcoming races that demand sustained speed and recovery. The women’s 7th-place finish underscores their ability to score points reliably, while the men’s 9th-place result shows room for tighter pack running.
Implications for the Season Ahead
With these performances in the books, Bellarmine’s cross country program appears poised for a strong fall campaign. The freshmen’s entry into the top-50 all-time marks not only honors individual efforts but also elevates the team’s historical records. As they integrate these results into training adjustments, the Knights aim to climb conference standings and secure berths in postseason events.
Early-season meets like this one often reveal key insights into fitness levels and tactical adjustments. For Hooten, whose 25:14 now ranks among the program’s elite, and Oesterling with his 25:28, the focus will shift to maintaining consistency. Liam Ford’s leadership remains crucial, as his 26:02 performance inspires younger runners to push limits.
The 189 points scored by the women highlight a balanced lineup, with contributions from multiple athletes keeping them competitive. In the broader GLVC landscape, such results keep Bellarmine in the mix for regional qualification, where top finishes can lead to national exposure.
Looking back, Bellarmine has steadily built its cross country presence since joining the NCAA Division II ranks. Events like the Swags Louisville XC Classic fit into a packed schedule that includes invitationals and dual meets, all geared toward peaking in November. The 150 competitors at this meet offered diverse competition, allowing Bellarmine to gauge progress against peers.
Overall, the outing reinforces the value of targeted preparation, turning rigorous workouts into tangible results on the course. As the season unfolds, these achievements could serve as a foundation for even bolder goals.
FAQ
- What were the standout performances at the Swags Louisville XC Classic?
- Freshmen Hooten and Oesterling posted all-time top-50 marks. Hooten ran a 25:14 for 22nd in the 8K, cracking the program’s top 30 list, while Oesterling’s 25:28 earned 28th and top-40 status.
- How did Bellarmine’s women’s team perform?
- The Knights’ women finished 7th overall among 12 teams, scoring 189 points.
- What was the result for the men’s team?
- Bellarmine’s men placed 9th, with senior captain Liam Ford’s 26:02 leading the pack.
- Where and how large was the meet?
- The meet was hosted at Fern Creek Traditional High School and featured 150 competitors.
- What are the team’s broader goals?
- As GLVC contenders, the team eyes regional qualification with improved times.
Key Performances Chart
| Athlete | Event | Time | Place | Program Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hooten (Freshman) | 8K | 25:14 | 22nd | Top 30 |
| Oesterling (Freshman) | 8K | 25:28 | 28th | Top 40 |
| Liam Ford (Senior) | 8K | 26:02 | Lead Pack | N/A |
This chart summarizes the top individual results from Bellarmine athletes at the meet, focusing on times and rankings.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisville Women’s Cross Country Team Triumphs at Classic
Louisville’s Artists & Afros Event Showcases Black Creativity
University of Louisville Cross Country Teams Shine at Louisville Classic
Bellarmine Women’s Golf Achieves Historic Finish at PGA Works Collegiate Invitational
Bellarmine University Initiates $75 Million Campaign
Louisville Hosts Major Collegiate Cross Country Event
Louisville Cross Country Teams Shine at Home Classic
Bellarmine University Launches $75 Million Capital Campaign
Bellarmine University Unveils $75 Million Campaign for Anniversary
Louisville Classic Cross Country Meet Showcases Regional Talent
