Dennis Young Classic

Well we had the Dennis Young Classic this past weekend at home and put on a pretty good show. The men did everything they possibly could to win and just missed out. We scraped out every point possible and were narrowly nipped at the end by 4 points. We had a few people sick and and a few little nagging injuries but all in all had a pretty good weekend. The big highlight of the meet was Shawn Olorundami and his 7.75 in the 55 hurdles, which provisionally qualifies him for the national championships. As coaches we knew he was on the verge of running a great time and we still believe he will still drop considerable time. He also went on to win the 200 meter dash and was a part of our 4x400 team. Eric Bertelsen also had a pretty good day considering he was sick all week and is still healing up his ankle. He was still able to win the long jump, place second in the 200 and was also on the 4x400 team. AJ Dahm also was able to pull out a victory and drop a second off of his 400 time. Justin Taylor had a breakthrough in the 800 dropping down under 2 minutes for the first time. It was great to see him really get out and push in this race to test himself. I think he has a long ways to go and will only see improvement as the weeks go on. Chris Rowedder also had a good day winning the 55 dash. Steven Ricke set another personal best in the shot put and just keeps getting better.I know i'm missing some performances, which is easy to do with the way our team has been performing lately. We just want to keep the momentum going into the next few weeks and be at our best at the conference championships. 

On the women's side of things, Andrea Ahrendsen won the high jump and set a pr in the 800 meters. Missy Reinhart ran a tough race in the 400 meters and was able to pull out a pretty good time. Natalie Olorundami placed 3rd in the 55 hurdles and is showing she is on the verge of a great race also. The women's 4x400 team also chopped 5 seconds off their season best! So all in all we are really seeing some good improvement from the women as well.

 The best part of the weekend was that we had a reception for alumni, parents and athletes after the meet. It was great to have that many people who support our program together in one place enjoying a great meal!! I just hope that it can continue to grow each year. It was just great to share memories with alumni and to let them see the present team and the where I see our future going.