ELLENSBURG, WA - Though regular-season meets will quickly see the end of 2024 competition, the Eagles continue to better individual times and marks, this weekend led by Elizabeth Behnke securing yet another Northwest University school record at the Central Washington University Wildcat Invite. 

Behnke, the senior from Phoenixville, PA, ran a 12.62 in the 100 meter, passing Erika McDaniel's 12.69 time in 2014. Behnke placed 4th of 18 in the 100 meter, as well as 13th of 24 in the 200 meter at 26.13.

Head Coach Mark Mandi says, "Lizzy had been competing well in the 100m all outdoor season but was stuck running in the 12.9's until the weather and competition lined up Saturday, and she broke the 100m school record. A big congratulations to her for doing that, but it wasn't a surprise that it happened because she prepares and competes in a way that gives her opportunities to break records."

Gabriel Yonko marked a personal record this weekend with a 29.72m hammer throw. Nayel Bereket marked a personal record as well, with a 10.27m mark in the shot put. 

Other personal records from Saturday include Marissa Guthrie in the 3k with an 11:39.24 time, Scott Baisden in the 400m at 54.92, and Acacia Crees in the 400m at 1:08.07.

"I loved the effort we were putting out there today. We had some great performances," says Coach Mandi. "Our team showed the desire to compete to the best of the abilities God gave them. We aren't going to PR each time we compete, but we can always honor God and find ways to improve our craft. Our team is finding ways to get better, and it's great to see as a coaching staff. Hopefully that will help us to end our season on a high note as we wrap up our regular season soon."

The Eagles head to Corvallis, OR, on April 26 for the Oregon State University High Performance Meet, followed by the Ralph Vernacchia Invitational on April 27 hosted by Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA.