Pueblo, Colorado - The New Mexico Highlands University Women's Track & Field team made their mark at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Pueblo, Colorado, bringing home six more All-American awards. The Cowgirls finished 17th in the team standings, a strong showing against the nation's best.
Clarke Shines in Photo Finish Hurdles
Junior
Patreece Clarke delivered a breathtaking performance in the 100-meter hurdles, snatching second place in a thrilling photo finish. Clarke clocked a personal best of 13.04 seconds, missing the top spot by just one-hundredth of a second (13.05). Clarke's effort shaved another .08 off her previous career best of 13.37, which she brought into the championships.
"If you watch the video, you'll swear Patreece is the winner, but I was able to view the photo and it's close, but clear," noted HU head coach
Bob DeVries.
"Coach (Damia) Russell and Patreece have formed a dynamic duo in the sprint hurdles. Patreece almost pulled off the upset of the meet." added DeVries.
4x100m Relay Claims Third After Record-Breaking Performance
Just two days after making history by breaking the NCAA record and becoming the first DII team to run under 44 seconds, the Cowgirl 4x100-meter relay team powered to a third-place finish in the final. The quartet of Clarke, Rujeko Munesti,
Ashley Barrett, and
Kacian Powell crossed the line in 44.07 seconds. While an impressive run, it wasn't quite enough to hold their record, as both Fresno Pacific and CSUSB eclipsed the Cowgirls' mark in the final.
"We needed a perfect race to bring home another NCAA title today," said DeVries. "We ran well, just not perfect."
Barrett's Courageous 100m Final
Following three grueling preliminary races and the 4x100 relay final,
Ashley Barrett showcased immense grit in the 100-meter final, earning her fourth career All-American honor.
Coach DeVries acknowledged the demanding schedule for his athlete. "Ashley just ran out of power," he stated. "Sometimes I ask too much. These are young women, not invincible warriors. It's on me."
Campbell Competes in Triple Jump
The Cowgirls' sole field event qualifier,
Rojrika Campbell, competed in the triple jump, finishing 17th overall with a leap of 12.23 meters. She fell just shy of her season best in the event.
The Cowgirls' performance at the NCAA championship marks the 16th consecutive year with at least one All American performance.
"I've been lucky to have been able to establish a program with good athletes and coaches who know how to develop talent even when circumstances are not the best. There's something to be said for continuity, " added DeVries
