Bozeman, Mont. – The University of Montana Western track team inched closer to national qualifying standards at the Montana State Open on Saturday afternoon.
Mindy Kaufman ran a personal best 4:49.57 in the 1500 meters, which with the elevation converts to a 4:43.57, just a second and a half away from hitting the national standard.
Eireann O'Connor also ran a personal best in the event, running in a converted time of 4:48.87. She also finished in the 800 meters in a quick 2:29.50.
Emma Adams finished the 1500 meters in a time of 5:39.45.
"We continued to show signs of progress," head coach
Dylan Zitzer said. "Racing in Bozeman is a tough, competitive atmosphere and I'm pleased to see our athletes rise to the occasion. It's especially exciting to see Mindy and Eireann have a strong 1500m."
In the men's 400 meters freshman
Jake Jessop impressed with a time of 52.14.
Josh Jessop ran a season's best 2:03.50 in the 800 meters.
Russell Kujala finished just a few second back in 2:08.70.
The Bulldogs finished in a pack in the 1500 meters. Led by Kujala's time of 4:20.57,
Josh Jessop followed at 4:22.15.
Tanner Lehr was next at 4:33.65, and making his collegiate track debut,
Jacob Rice ran a 4:40.56
The Bulldogs will be back in action April 26 at the Trudnowski Open in Helena, Mont.
