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Track and field athletes ready to represent NIU at nationally recognized Kansas, Mt. SAC relays

April 18, 2012
Courtney Oldenburg

Courtney Oldenburg

The Northern Illinois track and field team will send athletes to two highly competitive meets this weekend, as they head to the Kansas Relays and the Mt. SAC Relays.

Both meets get under way Thursday morning and continue through Saturday afternoon.

“Kansas Relays is one of the top relay meets held during the outdoor season,” said Huskie head coach Connie Teaberry.

“This will be the teams first time competing there, but we have prepared and welcome the challenge. The ladies have set goals for themselves, and are looking to accomplish some of those goals this weekend.”

The Kansas Relays, which is in its 85th year in 2012, will feature many of the best programs in the Midwest. Along with the host Jayhawks, Missouri, Nebraska, Wichita State and Kansas State will send their best to the meet. NIU will have 14 athletes competing in 13 events, including representatives in each of the sprint events.

Meanwhile, distance athletes Courtney Oldenburg and Juliane Totzke will run at the 54th annual Mt. SAC Relays in Walnut, Calif. Both Huskies will be a part of Thursday night’s Distance Festival inside Hilmer Lodge Stadium, as Oldenburg takes part in the 1500 meters at 4 p.m. Central and Totzke runs in the Olympic Development 10,000 meters at 11:15 p.m. Central.

This weekend will also serve as one of the last opportunities for the Huskies to move up in the Mid-American Conference and the NCAA West Region rankings. Currently, 12 different NIU athletes are in the top 10 of their respective events in the MAC performance list.

Additionally, Roneisha Frye is on the inside track for a spot at the NCAA West Preliminary Round, ranking 25th this week in the 100 hurdles.

For more information on NIU track and field and Huskie athletics, visit www.niuhuskies.com.