May 25, 2007
COLUMBIA, Mo. -
The Illinois State women's 4x100-meter relay team of Anna Lovell, Devon Williams, Lyn Cox and Kyndra Curtin finished in 13th place, highlighting the Redbird track and field team's performance during the first day of the NCAA Mideast Regional Friday in Columbia, Mo. The relay team crossed the finish line in 46.05 seconds, however, were unable to advance into Saturday's finals at Audrey J. Walton Stadium.
Assistant coach Jeff Chakouian was pleased with the effort shown by all the Redbirds that competed on Friday, and felt that the colder temperatures affected the entire field's performance.
"The conditions were kind of tough today," said Chakouian. "It was cold, and not really favorable for great performances. All of our kids competed well and gave it all they had. While the times might not have been what they had hoped, the effort was definitely there. "
Senior Jeremy Doherty finished in 23rd place in the men's 1,500-meter run, clocking in at 3:58.67. Doherty also missed qualifying into Saturday's final. In the men's hammer throw, Anton Walczak tossed a distance of 154-08 feet, finishing in 33rd and was unable to advance.
The Redbirds have two remaining members competing Saturday, with Alex Straughn in the high jump and Samantha Springer in the discus throw.
"Today's events gave our kids another chance to compete at a big time national meet," said Chakouian. "They got to see what its like to compete against some great competition and it was a great learning experience. Our coaching staff is excited about tomorrow, because there is a lot of potential for good things. The competition will still be tough, but I think our kids will be right in the mix and will have a chance to qualify for nationals."
The women's hammer throw kicks off Saturday's events at 11 a.m. For complete results from the NCAA Mideast Regional, please visit http://mutigers.cstv.com/ncaatrack/index.html
