SEATTLE, Wash. — Santa Clara track competed in the first indoor meet in program history over the weekend, with five runners splitting time between the 3,000 and 5,000 meter races at the Husky Classic in Seattle, Wash. Sophomore Joey Berriatua set a school record in the 3,000 meter race and graduate student-athlete Kurt Ruegg set a school record in the 5,000 meter race.
Berriatua's 3,000 meter time of 8:19.76 and Ruegg's 5,000 meter time of 14:26.63 each broke a school record set within the last two seasons.
"This was a very worthwhile trip. The opportunity to face high-level competition at this point in the season is valuable," assistant coach Pete Cushman said. "We can learn some things from a trip like this, and we can apply these experiences to the high level competitions we'll attend in March through May."
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS
Joey Berriatua — 3,000m — 8:19.76 (School Record)
"Joey ran 3k faster than anyone in Santa Clara track history, so it's certainly a big week for him, though I think he would tell you he's capable of running much faster and competing even better," Cushman said. "He's got a great competitive approach, and he's ready for a big spring."
Bryan Crook — 5,000m — 15:07.59
Mary Kriege — 5,000m — 17:54.62
"Mary hasn't raced since May, so it was great to see her in a Bronco uniform again," Cushman said. "She's ahead of where she was this time last year, and once she shakes some of this race rust, she'll start running much faster."
Kelly Ryan — 5,000m — 18:23.91
Kurt Ruegg — 5,000m — 14:26.63 (School Record)
"Kurt ran great. He executed the first two thirds of the race perfectly, and he put himself in position to win with 600 meters to go," Cushman said. "This was a great season opener for him, and we're looking forward to seeing what he can do over 5k and 10k this outdoor season."
The Broncos return to action this weekend at the West Coast Challenge and Relays Feb. 21-22 in Orinda, Calif.
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