University of Illinois
NCAA Regional Championships
Fighting Illini Finish First Day Strong
May 26, 2006 | Men's Track & Field
May 26, 2006
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - The Fighting Illini Men's Track and Field team wrapped up the first day of competition at the NCAA Mideast Regional Championships Friday in Knoxville, Tenn., advancing five athletes to the finals in four events.
"It was a great first day and I am very pleased with all of the performances," said Illinois coach Wayne Angel. "Now we have the momentum to keep us rolling into tomorrow," said Angel.
The men's 4x100m relay team of sophomore Pierre Bush, senior Andre English, senior Abe Jones and freshman Dominique Worsley advanced to the finals today after recording a time of 39.99. The time is a team-best this season and places them at fifth on the all-time outdoor best list.
In the preliminary 400-meter hurdle race, senior Abe Jones ran a time of 51.09, winning his heat and qualifying for the finals.
"Abe ran a very controlled and strategic race," Angel said.
Another senior, Nathan Vadeboncouer, also advanced to the finals in the 400-meter dash. Vadeboncouer's time of 46.40 is a personal best.
"He ran a smart and tactical race," said Angel. "Tomorrow he's going to try to go under 40."
In the preliminary 200-meter dash, freshman Dominique Worsley placed second in his heat with a time of 20.77. His time is a personal best and advanced him to the 200-meter dash finals.
"Dominique had an outstanding time for a freshman," said Angel. "He hit a bump in the 100-meters, but he resolved to do well in the 200-meter."
The Fighting Illini Men's Track and Field team will resume competition at the NCAA Mideast Regional Championships tomorrow at 11 a.m. in Knoxville, Tenn. For Full results check www.utsports.com.
