LINCOLN, Neb. – The SIUE track and field program wrapped up competition at the first meet of its indoor season as they took part in the second and final day of the Holiday Inn Invitational at Devaney Sports Center.
"Overall, the team did very well coming back on day two and the effort was high," Interim Head Coach Eileen McAllister said. "I'm really pleased with the results across the board. The staff has done an excellent job preparing the athletes and the athletes have worked very hard."
For the women's team, Jatavia Wright took home first-place honors in the triple jump with a new school record mark of 41-3. The previous record of 41-0.25 was set by Christine Butler in 2007.
"Jatavia had a tremendous meet," McAllister said. "Her whole series in the triple jump was good. To come out like she did on her first attempt really sent a message to the rest of the field."
Wright also impressed in the track events, finishing second in the 60 meter hurdles with a time of 8.63. LaDonna Caston claimed third place by finishing in 8.76.
Sophomore Jessica Oranika placed fifth in the 400 meters with a new personal best of 56.47, and also set a new personal best in the 200 meters (25.82). Hilary Conrad also had a strong showing in the 200 meters, posting a new personal best of 25.26.
On the men's side, Braxton Klavins finished second in the 200 meters, running a time of 47.70. Klavins was the top collegiate finisher in the event.
"Braxton's win in the 400 was definitely a highlight and was important for the team score," McAllister said.
Ahmad Evans and Darius Smith finished sixth and seventh, respectively, in the 200 meters. Evans finished in 22.11 while Smith posted a new personal best of 22.13.
Josh Thomas finished eighth in the men's 60 meter hurdles with a time of 8.55, while Smith took eighth in the 60 meter dash (6.98).
Greg Block and Jamil Mashni finished seventh and eighth, respectively, in the men's shot put. Block posted a mark of 52-6.5 while Mashni threw 51-1.75.
"I'm very happy with our seniors." McAllister added. "They performed as we would expect them to at this point in their careers: with poise, confidence and tenacity. They lead the team on and off the track."
The Cougars will return to competetition next Saturday when they face Ohio Valley Conference rival Southeast Missouri in a dual meet. Competiton is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. in Elsah, Ill.
