As the school year comes to a close, the Washington University track team continues to run hard as it prepares for the NCAA Division III championship meet.
One of the stepping stones to this event is the Southern Illinois-Edwardsville Cougar Classic, which was held last Saturday. Although everyone has been running well, two athletes in particular have performed exceptionally: sophomore pole-vaulter Sarah Springer and sophomore middle distance runner Mindy Kuhl.
In the Cougar Classic, Kuhl ran a 4:39.02 in the 1500-meter run, giving her an NCAA qualifying time. Her time was the second-fastest time in the NCAA this year, and Kuhl was named one of the UAA athletes of the week.
“Going into the meet, I knew it was going to be a good day. The weather conditions were perfect and I knew I was going to run well. The competition at the meet was good and that helped me perform at a higher level,” said Kuhl
“I had a bad start at the beginning, I was being boxed out by other runners, but 200 meters into the race I saw an opening, made my move and had the lead the rest of the way.”
Springer, who was just as impressive, pole vaulted 11 feet, beating her personal best by 2 inches. She placed first at the Cougar Classic and is now ranked 11th in the nation at the Division III level. Most notably, Springer has improved by almost a foot on her vaults from a year ago.
“Our coaching staff has gotten a lot better this year,” said Springer. “Coach [Steve] Rubin’s lifting program made me stronger and he taught me to jump.”
This Friday and Saturday, the UAA championship is being held at Emory University. The meet has historically proved to be successful for WU track.
“From past experience and indoor track, our team is very strong, and we always come out ahead. The girls usually dominate the meet.” said Kuhl.
Individually, players are taking different approaches in preparing for the meet. Kuhl plans on facing tough competition in the 1500m and 800m.
“Because I’m running two days in a row. I don’t want to get spent early in the meet,” said Kuhl. “I will run hard, but not all out until I make it to the final round. I also have the 800 to run for so I have to save energy for that.”
Springer, on the other hand, is in a league of her own. Her vaults normally take out all competitors by at least two feet.
“It’s a mental game for me,” said Springer. “I have to stay mentally focused and not put a cap on what I can do.”
No matter what the approach, the team expects much success to come from the UAA invitational.
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