Track and field heads to OSU, GVSU


Central Michigan track and field has another full weekend.

The Chippewas are set to compete in the Jesse Owens Classic, hosted by Ohio State University, and the Al Owens Invitational, at Grand Valley State University, April 18 and April 19.

The team’s top sprinters will be traveling to Ohio State because to face a more elite level of competition. The rest of the team will be traveling to Grand Valley where there will be a large number of competitors.

Mark Guthrie, director of track and field, said he is not in favor of these large meets.

“I have coached for a long time and it is not good for track," Guthrie said. "It is like taking a football game and (playing) for six hours, but it does provide opportunities, the weather is going to be pretty decent and you don’t have to travel really far.”

The weather in Allendale is expected to be around 50 degrees with winds around 10 mph. The weather for the sprinters at the Jesse Owens Classic is expected to be a little nicer with temperatures around 65 degrees and slight winds of 7 mph.

Guthrie hopes the team just keeps getting better and better while staying healthy. He said he wants to keep his team focused at working toward the final goal, the Mid-American Conference championship.

“For track and field it all comes down to one day, and in that moment you have to be at your best,” Guthrie said. “You can be good all year long, but if you’re sick on that day, it’s over.”

Guthrie has had a hard time evaluating the overall performance of his team because uncooperative weather has stifled the performances they have been looking for. However, based on the team’s attitude and work ethic he has been very pleased with the team so far.

Last week, sophomore Cole Walderzak threw a career best in the hammer throw of 207 feet and 10 inches to earn the top spot. Walderzak also finished third in discus with a mark of 172 feet and 11 inches.

“It feels good breaking the personal records, and knowing that all the training is paying off and things are going good,” Walderzak said.

Walderzak is traveling to Grand Valley to compete at the Al Owens Invitational this weekend.

“I don’t consider anyone really a rival, as far as throwers are concerned we are all pretty close,” Walderzak said. “I honestly like competing against my own teammates, I think that’s the most fun.”

 

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