The distance runners on the Seattle University track and field team enjoyed success Friday, as three school records were broken during the San Francisco State Distance Carnival held at Cox Stadium.
"While I knew it was possible to get a school record in each of the events we had people entered in, you never go in expecting that will actually happen," Seattle U head coach Trisha Steidl said. "It was great to see everyone come out and compete hard today."
Elena Smith (Seattle, Wash.) started the record-breaking day by setting a new standard in the 10,000 meter run, finishing fourth in her section and 15th overall in the event with a time of 36:49.34, almost 30 seconds faster than the previous mark. Taylor de Laveaga (Gilbert, Ariz.) finished 12th in her section of the 10,000 meter run with a time of 37:47.48.
Sophie Curatilo (Honolulu, Hawaii) broke her own school record in the 5000 meter run, winning her section and finishing seventh overall with a time of 16:50.10, over 40 seconds quicker than the mark she established almost two years ago. Since the start of the indoor track and field season in January, Curatilo has broken four school records.
Gus Arroyo (Portland, Ore.) joined the record-setting party in the men’s 5000 meter run, posting a time of 14:37.94, almost three full seconds quicker than the previous mark set three years ago. Matthew Seidel (Santa Clara, Calif.) also competed in the 5000 meter run, finishing his race with a time of 14:59.22, good enough for ninth place in his section. Unfortunately, Joe Charbonneau (Bellingham, Wash.) fell while competing in the 5000 meter run and was unable to finish the race.
"You don't wish that kind of experience on anyone, but Joe is a trooper and he'll be back, even more hungry than he was before," added Steidl.
The Seattle University track and field team returns to action next weekend for the annual WAR meet at Spokane Falls Community College in Spokane, Wash. The 10,000 meter run and hammer throw will take place Friday, April 10, at 3 p.m, followed by the rest of the meet Saturday, April 11, at 10 a.m.