Junior Robert Breit of the Illinois State track and field team finished 10th in the steeplechase while Joe Drevlow and Andrea Black both set new personal bests to lead the Redbirds in the first day of the Alabama Relays.
Breit, running the steeplechase for the first time in his career, clocked the 3,000 meter course in 9:49.04.
Its his first time running and we found out that he can get over the barriers and the water jump pretty well, and were very pleaded with his performance, head coach Jeff Pigg said.
Shattering his old hammer mark by nearly eight feet, Drevlows toss of 155-3 earned 14th while Blacks new best time of 2:15.41 in the 800 was good for 16th in her race.
Its nice to start the outdoor season with some personal records, Pigg added. Andrea ran very well today and Joe is putting himself in the position to make an impact in the conference.
Freshman Jarod Tobler also turned in a strong performance. The Aurora native had a leap of 23-4 1/2 to take 12th in the long jump. Peter Madsen also took 12th in the 800.
All-American Kathrine Nielsen finished 17th in the long jump with 18-10 3/4 while Rebecca Koehler had a throw of 125-0 for 18th in the discus.
Were coming off a little down time, and have had a nice meet, Pigg said. Weve had nice weather and solid performances. Were really happy with what has gone on and feel like were right on target.
The Alabama Relays conclude tomorrow at Sam Bailey Track.
