4x100M runs at NCAAs

EUGENE, Ore. – On day one of the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Ore. on Wednesday, Arkansas Razorback men’s track and field saw its 4×100-meter relay compete. The University of Oregon is hosting the four-day event at Hayward Field.

The 4×100-meter relay finished sixth in its heat and 20th overall in the semis but did not advance to Saturday’s finals. Freshman Caleb Cross, freshman Hunter Bourke, junior LaShawn Butler and freshman Cobi Hamilton combined for a time of 41.11.

"This was definitely a good experience for us," Cross said. "We knew it was a long shot for us to advance but we wanted to run well and have good hand offs. Your race has to be perfect to advance at the NCAA meet. I’m really happy with our performance today considering the adversity we faced this season with injuries and getting this relay group together. I think this season and our NCAA experience will make us that much better next year."

The Razorback sprint relay clocked a season best of 39.95, finished ninth at the SEC Championships and 11th at the NCAA West prelims.

"I think our guys did a good job of staying together and staying focused," assistant coach Doug Case said. "I think we are a little lucky to be here. We had some injuries and some changes but our guys handled it well. They are all young and they all come back next year. With our incoming freshmen and some redshirts, this relay has the potential for big things next season. To go through the process, get the stick around and learn what it takes to make the final at an NCAA meet is huge for these guys. It will make them that much better next year."

Competition will resume for the Razorbacks Thursday at 6:15 p.m. CT with Butler in the semifinals of the 200 meters. He holds a season-best of 20.80, clocked at the NCAA West prelims. He ranks 22nd coming into the event.