On October 4, 2013, the University of South Carolina Aiken women's cross country team hosted the Bridgestone-Pacer Invitational.
The weather was optimal for a home race, reaching as high as 88 degrees at noon but cooling off to the mid-70's by the late afternoon start.
With five teams competing in the 5k event, USC Aiken knew it would be tough to pick up a victory. However, head coach Kara Kreutzer knew that standout runner Keely Gillespie (Barkell) would be the team's best chance for a top finish.
Gillespie, a senior from nearby North Augusta, S.C., was competing in her final home event. Between fellow students and local fans, she gave the crowd a lot to cheer for.
Gillespie was neck-and-neck for essentially the entire race with Georgia College standout runner Lena White.
The Bobcats' runner had close to a five-meter lead on Gillespie with less than 200 meters to go. Heading down the final hill on the way to the finish line, Gillespie still trailed White, but was gaining ground. It was until the final few strides that Gillespie surged past White for the overall victory.
Gillespie finished the event in 20:16.994 while White crossed the line in 20:17.010.
The Pacers finished third at the event, but the story of the day was Gillespie's outstanding comeback for the win.
Original Article
Week 9 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Keely Gillespie Wins Last Home Race With Epic Comeback
Week 8 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Mackenzie Reese Hits Game-Winning Three-Point Shot At Augusta State  Â
Week 7 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Ike Ofoje Picks Up First Win As A Pacer
Week 6 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Baseball's Ninth Inning Comeback Sends Pacers Past No. 1 Nova Southeastern
Week 5 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Women's Soccer's Late Surge Produces Tie With No. 10 Wingate
Week 4 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - USC Aiken Captures Three Consecutive National Championships
Week 3 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History -Â Men's Basketball Makes Historic Run To Final FourÂ
Week 2 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Volleyball Captures NCAA Southeast Region Championship
Week 1 - Memorable Moments In USC Aiken Athletics History - Softball Makes Run To PBC Tournament ChampionshipÂ
