Track Set to Host Alabama Relays
3/25/2009 12:00:00 AM
March 25, 2009
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The Alabama women's track and field team will open its 2009 outdoor season by hosting the annual Alabama Relays at the Sam Bailey Track and Field Stadium on the campus of the University of Alabama. The meet will begin on Thursday, March 26 and go through Sunday, March 29.
"I think it's really important to win at home. Not only the kids showing their talent abilities, but they also bring dedication and motivation things to the table that not only we get to see but other people so that we can put the pieces together because track is a big puzzle."
The first event for the Alabama Relays will be the heptathlon at 9:30 a.m. with the decathlon to follow at 11:00 a.m. The first day will feature the 100 meter hurdles, high jump, shot put and 200m on the women's side. For the men, the 100 meters, long jump, shot put, high jump and 400m will kick-off the annual event.
A total of 33 squads will be in town this weekend for the Alabama Relays, including three teams from the Southeastern Conference (Auburn, Ole Miss and Mississippi State).
Saturday and Sunday's schedule include the bulk of the weekend events with events beginning at 8:30 and 8:00 a.m., respectively. Saturday will begin with the women's 10,000m run. The men's hammer throw will start Sunday's events and running events will begin at 12:30 p.m. with the shuttle hurdle relay.
"I like to see the athletes open up a season where they left off. Right now I'd be comparing more outdoor to outdoor. If they start good then there's a new stepping stone, per say, as to an achievement or goal that they trying to reach. That's how they know their training is working and I think that's a key."
Alabama concluded its indoor season with a near All-American performance by Chealsea Taylor in the high jump. Taylor cleared 5-10 3/4, the same height eighth place jumped for All-American honors, but due to misses on previous heights fell to 10th place.
Players Mentioned
