Without top runner Malcolm Taylor, the Uni boys still managed to finish in eighth place at the 26th annual Chrisman Cowchip Classic, the same as they did last year when Taylor not only competed but won his flight. The performance indicates an improved depth the team hopes to draw on as it turns its attention to the Twin Cities Meet on Tuesday at Illini Meadows.

Michelle Mehnert won the award for top senior and Elizabeth Russell was named top sophomore at Saturday's 26th annual Chrisman Cowchip Classic. The Uni girls finished the day second overall, but only Class 2A powerhouse Mahomet-Seymour outran them on the 3-mile course. With the performance, the Illineks established themselves as the team to beat among small schools in East Central Illinois. Next up: The girls will defend their Twin Cities title Tuesday afternoon at Illini Meadows.

The Uni girls swim team won every event at Saturday's meet with Stanford Olympia. The 131-24 victory marked an impressive beginning to the 2007 season. The girls will travel north Saturday as they visit the Maroons of University High Chicago. Last season Uni defeated their rival lab school 87-81.