AUSTIN, Texas – Kicking off the 2022 outdoor season, sophomore Ariel Atias (javelin) and junior Joseph Morrison (1500m) each set program top-10 marks on day one of competition at the Texas Relays and Raleigh Relays, respectively.
In the Lone Star State, Atias threw a personal best in the men's javelin with a mark of 63.64m (208-9 ft.) to finish fifth overall in section B. With his throw, Atias ranks No. 4 in school history, No. 9 in the West Region and No. 33 in the NCAA this season.
Making his Illinois State debut on the outdoor track, Morrison clocked a time of 3:47.18 in the 1500m to finish 39th overall in a field of 200 competitors. Morrison's time now ranks as ninth in school history. In addition to Morrison, teammates Jake Gillum and Riley Wells clocked in with times of 3:49.06 and 3:52.62, respectively.
"It was a good start for the men's middle distance squad today with great racing as all three men placed in the top-2 in their respective heats," Director of Track & Field/XC Jeff Bovee said. "All races were slow early, but the men closed well and looked sharp in their outdoor season debuts."
In addition to the Texas and Raleigh Relays, the Redbirds also competed in the Bobcat Invitational, hosted by Texas State. Sophomore Macy Byer opened up her second outdoor season as a 'Bird with a throw of 47.70m (156-6 ft.) in the discus to finish fourth overall.
Competing in his first meet since the 2021 outdoor season, senior Cole Maguire made his return to the track, as he finished sixth in the 400m hurdles at the Texas Relays with a time of 53.16 seconds.
Illinois State continues action at the Texas Relays, Raleigh Relays and Bobcat Invitational on Friday, March 25, beginning at 9:30 a.m. CT.
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