Men’s track and field falls to Oregon
Although the Bruins were unable to upset Oregon at Hayward Field on Saturday, the dual meet served as an indicator of an unyielding team mentality against adversity.
The No. 3 Ducks defeated the Bruins, 92-71, in front of a large crowd, but coach Mike Maynard was proud of his team for its unrelenting efforts.
“The great thing about this team is that we did not give up and still went after the Ducks,” Maynard said. “I am very proud of them for fighting all the way through.”
Amidst this strong competitive spirit, a number of Bruins delivered impressive individual performances.
Coming off a big win in the mile last weekend, redshirt junior Alex Crabill won the 5000 meters with a lifetime best, 14:11.57. Maynard felt that Crabill ran a gutsy race as he took control in the last kilometer. Crabill commented on how the race unfolded.
“Oregon’s (Daniel) Mercado was right behind us and we traded off the lead, but at one kilometer to go I made a move and moved well the last two laps,” Crabill said. “It was fun doing a victory lap at Hayward Field.”
Also in the distance events, juniors Dylan and Spencer Knight and redshirt freshman David McDonald swept the 3000-meter steeple chase. Dylan Knight ran a lifetime best, 8:48.84, which is the third fastest time in the NCAA this season.
Maynard was especially impressed by freshman David Klarer’s surprise victory in the 400-meter hurdles. He ran a season best ““ 53.15 ““ and Maynard was very pleased by Klarer’s efforts.
“David showed a lot of heart in his first collegiate win,” Maynard said.
Compiled by Bruin Sports senior staff. Read the full version of this story on dailybruin.com/sports.