MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois Cross Country head coach David Beauchem announced the cancellation of the home opener 7th Annual Early Bird Invitational scheduled for Friday, Sept. 2 at 5:45 p.m.

High temperatures and concern for the safety of the student-athletes and spectators played major roles in the decision to cancel the meet. It will not be rescheduled.

"Trust me when I say, this is a decision I had no intention of making," Beauchem said. "But there is just too great of a risk for the competitors and spectators. I have great regret in making this decision. It is our only home meet in cross country and we have put in a lot of work to make it a great event. But as the risk will so greatly lessen any positive experience from hosting the event, we have to do what is in the best interest of everyone involved."

The Fighting Leathernecks will now open the 2011 season at the Bradley Open next Friday, Sept. 9 in Peoria, Ill. The meet is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.