Track & Field

Cougars answer coach’s request to improve

COLLEGE STATION — In the shadows of Kyle Field, the Cougars track team put forth a gallant effort at McFerrin Athletic Center this weekend. Several Cougars responded strongly to head coach Leroy Burrell’s calls for action.

Junior Kalyn Floyd finished second in the women’s 200-meter with a time of 23.49 seconds and Grecia Bolton followed in fourth (23.9). The women’s 4×400-meter relay won its heat in a gutsy performance and went on to finish second with a time of 3:37.6.

“The women’s sprint group really showed what they’re capable of,” Burrell said. “Last week I felt like we hadn’t got enough done in the 200 and 4×4 and (Saturday) they got it done against some really tough competition.”

“I’m really proud of them. They’re a strong group and they’re starting to really show what they’re made of.”

One of the few low points of the meet was freshman Errol Nolan dropping the baton on the first leg of the men’s 4×400-meter relay. Nolan was boxed in, jostling for position and dropped the baton from the contact.

“It was (a) total freshman mistake,” Burrell said. “Although he may run like a seasoned veteran, he’s still a freshman.  So, he’s going to make mistakes from time to time. I’d rather him learn from his mistakes now than make them in a championship situation.”

Tyron Carrier and Nolan both finished in the top five for the 200-meter dash. Carrier finished fourth in 21.28 seconds and Nolan was right behind him in 21.32 seconds.

The Cougars showed strength in numbers in the triple jump with three top-three finishes. Junior Chris Carter placed second with a jump of 52 feet, 0.4 inches and Lamar Delaney claimed third at 49 feet, 8.45 inches. On the women’s side Nadirah Shakir notched third place with a jump of 39 feet, 6.4 inches.

Hurdler Cameron LaCour met coach Burrell’s challenge of breaking 8 seconds in the 60-meter hurdles. LaCour finished in 7.96 seconds, earning third place.

“I think that you’re going to see him make another big jump at conference,” Burrell said.

Burrell hopes people will take note of this weekend’s performance.

“I’m really looking forward to what happens with the rankings because I think the women’s team will make a jump in the national rankings,” Burrell said. “We really should, based on our performance this weekend.”

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