February 14, 2004

Semin Leads Track in Lincoln

Lopers Win Three Events at NWU Open

            Kearney, NE – The Nebraska-Kearney track team had 10 top three finishes (five women, five men) at the Prairie Wolf Invitational Friday night in Lincoln. The event was non-team scoring.

            Leading the way was Bellwood junior sprinter Kate Semin, who won the 400 meter dash in a time of 55.58. The time not only provisionally qualifies her for the NCAA's but also is one of the five fastest times in the event in the nation this year.  

            Semin was also one of three Lopers to place in the top eight in the 200 meter dash, coming in fifth (25.41).

            Also winning were Kearney sophomore Drew Tonniges in the mile (4:11.38) and Kansas senior Nate Wheat in the shot put (56-7.25). Tonniges' times provisionally qualifies him for the NCAA's while Wheat was one of seven Lopers to place in the top 12 in the shot.

            On the men's side, Walthill junior Derek Frese was runner up in the weight throw with a toss of 57-7.50 with Grand Island senior Scott Jorgensen fourth (season-high 56-8.50).

            UNK also had success in the men's pole vault, having three of the top eight finishers, led by Bertrand junior Mike Ford. He came in third place with an effort of 14-11.

            Finally, Ansley senior Derek Bailey was second in the high jump (6-10) and seventh in the 60 meter hurdles (8.43). Already a provisionally qualifier in the hurdles, Bailey's effort last night in the high jump also puts him on the national list.

            On the women's side, Hildreth senior Kathryn Alt (2:17.80) and Lexington junior Andrea Andersen (2:18.90) were second and third in the 800 meter run. UNK also had three of the top nine finishers in the pole vault, led by Hooper junior Cali Cordes (10-3), who tied for fourth.

            Also on the track, the 4 x 400 relay team ran a 3:54.11 to place second. In the throws, Central City sophomore Shauna Birdchard was third in the shot with a heave of 44-6.75.

            The Lopers host the UNK All-Comer next Friday afternoon.