Bilbrew McDonnell Earn SEC Indoor Awards

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Razorback runner Chris Bilbrew and head coach John McDonnell have been honored for their performances during the indoor season by the Southeastern Conference, it was announced on Tuesday.

Bilbrew, the SEC Freshman Runner of the Year,made an immediate impact on Arkansas’ DMR this season. Running the 800-meter leg, he was a member of four DMR teams that clocked NCAA qualifying times. He was also a member of the SEC Champion DMR.

“Chris has been a tremendous addition to our squad, especially as a member of the distance medley relay,” McDonnell said. “He has had a great indoor season and I hope his great performances continue at the NCAAs. He has a great Razorback career ahead of him.”

He was a member of the title-winning 4×800-meter relay at Millrose Games. At the Tyson Invitational, Bilbrew finished fourth in the invitational 800 meters with an NCAA provisional-qualifying time of 1:50.27. His time is a personal best and he was the only freshman to compete in a race dominated my professionals. He was named the SEC Freshman Runner of the Week for his efforts at the Tyson Invitational.

The SEC Indoor Coach of the Year, McDonnell led Arkansas to its 83rd conference title, 45th SEC title, 27th indoor conference title and 15th SEC indoor title. 17 of the 25 Arkansas competitors scored points in their respective events.

The Razorbacks ended the championship weekend with three event titles (long jump, triple jump and distance medley relay), seven All-SEC honors and a bevy of personal and season bests.

McDonnell has been named National Coach of the Year 12 times in indoor track, 11 times in outdoor track and seven times in cross country for a total of 30 awards. He has been Conference Coach of the Year a remarkable 49 times, and Region Coach of the Year 62 times.

The NCAA Championships, held at the Randal Tyson Track Center, will begin Friday, March 14. Visit www.hogwired.com for latest in Arkansas Track and Field.