Grace Track: Lancers Tackle Indoor Nationals
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. – Grace’s eight-member crew competed at the 2017 NAIA Indoor National Championships on Thursday and Friday.
The men’s 4×800-meter relay team placed 11th in the nation. Hunter Reed, Tyler Houvener, Nathan Lane and Sam Hall crossed the finish line in 7:50.71 to set a school record.
“The guys really got into the race and competed hard. Even though it was their first trip to nationals for all of them, they made a very good showing,” said Grace head coach Jeff Raymond.
Raven Arellano placed 25th individually in the 5,000 with a time of 18:51.71. “Raven got a good taste of national competition today. I know she hoped to run better, but the experience will pay off, and I know she will be back,” Raymond added.
Finally, the men’s trio of Macallister Seitz, Jacob Brown and Isaac Stuckey represented the Lancers in the weight throw. Stuckey led Grace’s throwers with a heave of 53-feet-7.75 to finish 20th in the nation.
Seitz was just behind Stuckey at 53-1 for 22nd place, and Brown’s toss of 50-2.75 placed 28th.
“Having three athletes qualify for nationals in one event is unprecedented for Grace; I’m proud of how hard these guys have worked. They hoped to throw a little better today, but I know they’ll get back to work and be ready to go for outdoor season,” Raymond concluded.”
The Lancers will open up the outdoor season on March 25 at the IWU Polar Bear Invitational.