Ruble, Cash hit national qualifying marks

Getting in a final tune up prior to the indoor national championships, Cowley College hosted the Tiger Last Chance meet Friday at the Tiger Track and Field Complex.

Deion Ruble and Xandria Cash made the most of the opportunity to compete as they each hit national qualifying marks in the 400-meter run. Ruble won the men’s event with a time of 49.97, while Cash placed first in the women’s event with a time of 59.22.

“I wasn’t sure Deion would qualify for the event in the indoor season, so that was a nice accomplishment,” Cowley head coach Mark Phillips said. “And, Xandria has been slowly coming on for us.”

Sasha Oliver and Kelsey Poljansek also had good performances leading up to the national championships, while Mauricio Morales (pictured), Jerell McCain, Rusty Grey, and Willy Lucero competed well for the Tiger men’s team.

Several other Jayhawk Conference schools came down to take part in the meet.
The NJCAA National Indoor will take place Friday and Saturday in Charleston, IL.

“This is such a tough year, I probably have less of a feel for where we will finish at nationals than I ever have,” Phillips said. “Both teams should finish in the top-10, if not I will be disappointed.”

Competition will begin at 9 a.m. Friday.

Cowley results:
WOMEN
•400-meter dash — Xandria Cash, 59.22, first.
•1,000-meter run — Janee’ Gabbard, 3:20.45, first.
•Triple jump — Sasha Oliver, 36-5 ½, first.
•Shot put — Kelsey Poljansek, 45-10 ½, first.

MEN
•400-meter dash — Deion Ruble, 49.97, first.
•Mile run — Mauricio Morales, 4:27.15, first.
•600-yard run — Jerell McCain, 1:17.02, first.
•60-meter hurdles — Rusty Grey, 9.46, third.
•Pole vault — Willy Lucero, 14-0, first.