PUEBLO, CO- Colorado Christian began their outdoor track & field season at the Dr. Dan Caprioglio Early Bird Invite in Pueblo Friday and Saturday. The two days resulted in a multitude of excellent results and fast times from the team.

Ashley Vil got things started on Friday in the triple jump, taking second place in the event with a jump of 11.08m. Hannah George continued on Saturday in the 200m, taking second place with a run of 25.67. Tara Smoker followed in fifth with a time of 26.07. In the 400m, Smoker climbed the leader board for a second place finish with a 57.74. George closed in fourth with a mark of 59.56 and a new personal best. 

The 1500m was an extremely strong event for the Cougars, led by Zanzie Demco. The graduate student ran a blazing fast time of 4:34.59 as she claimed first place in the race and earned an NCAA provisional qualifying time. Paige Tack followed in fifth with a time of 4:43.53. Michelle Kuipers finished in eighth with a time of 4:44.85. 

The 5000m was yet another strong event for CCU, starting with a second place finish from Lucy Pidek at 18:22.11. Callie Ketner came right behind her teammate in third with a run of 18:34.76. Norah Thompson came in fifth with a time of 18:41.19. Alayna Wallace closed in sixth with an 18:59.33. 

"I can't remember a season opener that produced so many National level results and personal best. Our entire roster seemed to be running on all cylinders today, our freshman had some breakout performances and our upperclassmen continued to impress. I am excited to see what the rest of the season holds," said Head Coach Jon Poag.

Following the fast start to the outdoor season, the Cougars will continue at the CSU Pueblo Invite March 31- April 1.