ANDERSON, S.C. – After setting numerous personal-bests at the Clemson Opener in early December, the Anderson University men's and women's track and field teams are set to resume their indoor schedule on Friday and Saturday by competing at South Carolina's Gamecock Opener.
Last month's notable performances on the women's side included freshman Aubrey Stoddard's first-place finish and newcomer Autumn Bladen runner-up finish in the 1,000 meters. The Hanahan, S.C., native also finished third in the 800 meters, with classmate Lauren Pernell finishing second in the 400 meters.
Yet another freshman, Brianna Quartararo, notched an impressive outing by placing second in the 800 meters. Seasoned veteran Olivia Rish crossed the finish line in second place in the mile run, while fellow junior Hannah Beach posted a personal-best en route to placing fifth in the 3,000 meters.
Stoddard, Quartararo, Rish and Pernell teamed up for a third-place finish in the distance medley.
Not to be outdone, the men's squad also posted impressive outings, with junior Matthew Burgess winning the mile run and freshman Noah Brock finishing as runner-up by crossing the finish line less than five seconds later. Sophomore Matthew Hobbs claimed fourth place.
Another freshman, Daniel Similton, finished fifth in the 3,000 meters, with veteran Philip Quillen posting an eighth-place finish on the strength of a personal-best effort.
A full complement of Trojans is expected to be on hand in the Capital City for the semester's first event.
The Gamecock Opener will be hosted at the Carolina Indoor facility, with the two-day event getting underway Friday at 10 a.m. with the women's weight throw.
Admission for adults is $10 and $5 for children between ages 2 and 17. Children under the age of 2 are free. Spectator admission will be charged. Spectators are required to adhere to USC's Athletics Clear Bag Policy. Doors will open at 8 a.m. and parking will be available on a first-come first-served basis.
