Central Arizona Relays

February 17/18, 2012

Two days of competition (Indoor-Friday & Outdoor-Saturday) in Coolidge Arizona, resulted in a host of fine performances by Mesa athletes. Perhaps the highlight for the Thunderbirds was the men's 600m where Jameson Castille, Todd Kirchener and Neil Houlihan swept the top three places. However, the most exciting event of the meet was arguably the much anticipated clash between the Mesa and Central Arizona men's 4x400m relay teams. Last year the two squads swopped places regularly in the closest of finishes and on this day only one second separated them. First blood in 2012 has gone to Central Arizona, but Mesa athletes will tell you that this is only the first battle in a season-long war and track fans can look forward to many more tremendous tussles.

Houlihan followed up on his 600m exploits when he took to his more favored event, the 400m hurdles. Looking even more sure footed as he negotiated barriers, the Illinois native coasted home in first place while qualifying for the National Outdoor Championships.

Despite failing to get off the ground in her warm-up runs, Mesa freshman Susan Pew literally rose to the occasion when the event began in earnest. Pew easily won the event as she equaled her season best height of 3.5 meters.

Other Mesa winners included Miles Taylor (men's 800m), Jacob McBride (men's weight), a discus double for Gerard Ingallina (men) and Anna Padgett (women) and a steeplechase double for Carly Blair (women) and Dallas Yarbrough (men).

Meanwhile, John Rudolph (hammer), Miles Taylor (800m indoor) and Desmond Gentry (200m) all beat National Championship qualifying standards.

Results