Michael Pecha

The South Dakota State University track team had an encouraging weekend at the MSU Open in Mankato, coming away with seven first-place finishes, and 16 other finishers placing in the top three.

“The team as a whole has a little way to go yet due to a heavy training week and some Christmas inactivity,” said graduate assistant Nick Burrow. “We will look strong however when it counts.”

Two men were victorious in Mankato. Freshman Brad Lowery won the mile run in 4:19.30. Freshman Steve Schreiber tied for first in the high jump after jumping 6 feet, 5 inches.

Four women claimed first place at the meet. Freshman Josey Meuer won the 60-meter dash in 8.09 seconds. Erin Woolley won the 3,000 meter run in 10:28. Jamie Keck won the triple jump with a jump of 36 feet, 7 inches, and Jennifer Stovall won the 60-meter hurdles in 9.06 seconds.

The women’s 4X400-meter relay team was also victorious.

“It was very pleasing to see these individuals come away with victories,” said Burrow. “These victories will hold them in good stead when they win bigger meets down the road.”

Other top performers for the men’s squad include: Lucas Fischer, second in the triple jump; David Hegland, second in the 60-meter hurdles;George Mollner, second in the 1,000-meter run; and Greg Darbyshire, second in the 3,000 meter run.

Women who claimed high finishes include: Cori Vining, second in the 60-meter hurdles; Anne Jorgenson, second in the 400-meter dash; Heidi Jordet, second in the 200-meter dash; Holly Hagena, second in the weight throw; and Alyssa Ruedebusch, second in the 3,000 meter run.

The Jackrabbits compete Jan. 26 at the University of Minnesota.