The Idaho Vandals men’s and women’s track and field teams will split up for two competitions this weekend, with most athletes traveling to Tucson, Arizona for the Desert Heat Classic on May 2, while others head to Corvallis, Oregon for the OSU High Performance meet taking place May 1-2.
This division allows the team to participate in a range of events across both locations. The majority of Idaho’s sprinters and jumpers will compete in Arizona. On the women’s side, Ashley Hollenbeck Willems is set to race as part of the 4×100 meter relay team as well as other individual events. Madden is scheduled for a full day with entries in the 400 meters, 400 meter hurdles, and the 4×400 meter relay. Marsh and Hollenbeck Willems are also entered in both the 100 meter and 200 meter sprints.
Field event athletes representing Idaho in Tucson include Francesca Cuccu competing in high jump, Amanda Munoz participating in triple jump, and a sophomore athlete who recently earned Big Sky Athlete of the Week honors competing in women’s long jump as well as racing in the 100 meter hurdles. For men’s events at Desert Heat Classic, Shawn Twumasi-Ampofo will take part in men’s triple jump alongside teammates entered into sprints and long jump.
Meanwhile, Idaho’s men’s throws team is expected to be prominent at Oregon State University. One junior athlete currently holds top marks for shot put and discus within the squad; he is anticipated to finish on or near the podium. A senior javelin thrower who set a personal best two weeks ago will also compete along with senior Kaden Hottman leading sophomores contesting hammer throw.
Distance runners from Idaho are slated for several races including men’s entries into the 800 meters, 1500 meters, and junior participation in steeplechase at Corvallis. Women competitors include juniors tackling middle distance races such as the 1500 meters; another junior runs the 800 meters while freshman Adisyn Andrew aims for another strong performance after her recent best javelin throw (44.91m) last weekend at Beach Invitational.
Looking ahead, head coach Tracy Hellman said that “The Vandals will return to Spokane once more for Whitworth Last Chance Meet on May 6.” This event serves as their final competition before heading into Big Sky Outdoor Championship held later this month.
