RESULTS
RALEIGH, N.C. – The Lee University Track & Field teams took five athletes to the Raleigh Relays and came away with three more provisional qualifying marks. Christian Noble and Audrey Smith met the necessary marks in the 3000-meter steeplechase, while Harold Smith met the standard in Saturday's 800-meter run.
"This was a very successful day for us," said Lee head coach Caleb Morgan. "This is by far the most competitive distance meet we have ever been to. We had all five athletes run huge personal bests."
Noble not only met the provisional mark in the steeplechase, but won the event by over three seconds with a time of 9:02.34. Behind him were Oakland University's George O'Connor (9:05.82) and Max Benoit (9:06.99) of Michigan State. Noble's time is currently the fastest posted in Division II so far this season.
"Christian's race in the 3K is truly special. He beat some of the best DI athletes in the country," added Morgan.
Smith crossed the finish line of the women's 3000-meter steeplechase at 10:48.13. Her time put her in first in her section and 14
th overall. It was the sixth-fastest mark in DII this season.
"Audrey dominated her heat in the steeple," said Morgan. "She ran an unbelievable race, achieving a 17-second personal record. With this being only her second steeple of the season, I am excited to witness how she progresses."
Jessica Childers recorded a personal record of 4:36.44 in the 1500-meter run. Although she placed 57
th, her time was just short of the provisional standard of 4:34.00 and is the sixth-best mark in the nation.
"Jessica is a phenomenal athlete who showcased her endurance and speed in her 1500 heat," praised Morgan. "She raced with composure and poise, resulting in an excellent performance."
Harold Smith and Brandon Raleigh competed in the 1500-meter run. Smith placed 52
nd with a time of 3:54.56 and Raleigh was 83
rd (4:00.35). Smith's time is No. 10 in DII this season.
Smith also competed in the 800-meter run on Saturday. He placed 10
th with a time of 1:52.29 and eclipsed the provisional mark of 1:52.33.
