Michael Pecha

Brad Lowery ran the fastest mile in Division II this year at the Tyson Invitational held at the University of Arkansas, to lead the SDSU track and field team this past weekend.

“Brad ran the best race of his career, taking third place in a very elite field,” head coach Paul Danger said. “The winner of the race placed second at the 2001 Division I National Championships.”

Lowery ran the mile in 4 minutes 6.58 seconds. Matt Pearson finished seventh in the race with a time of 4:09.29.

“Matt put together a very competitive race,” Danger said. “Many factors come into play at the National Championships, but these two have outstanding opportunities awaiting them at the NCAA championship in March.”

Erin Woolley moved up on the provisional list, running the mile in 5:00.

Those not traveling to Arkansas ran at the NDSU Open in Fargo, ND.

Mike Steele won the mile run at NDSU with his time of 4:20. He was followed in second by Chris Gruenhagen at 4:27. Clayton Lang finished fourth in 4:28.

Joel Teachout won the 3,000 meter run in 8 minutes 59 seconds. Jeremy VanVeen, running unattached for the Jackrabbits, finished second at 9:00.

Ben Fast continued to inch his way up the qualifying lists in the weight throw, and bettered his school record by throwing 54 feet 11 inches.

“This was a six inch personal best for Ben,” Danger said. “If he can put a little more distance on his throws, he has a great chance at making it to the national championships.”

Fast finished fourth in the shot put with his toss of 47 feet 2