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March 28, 2003
This weekend (Mar. 28-29) the Virginia Cavaliers will travel to Raleigh, NC to compete in the Raleigh Relays. The meet, which will be held at NC State’s track, will be the Cavaliers’ second meet of the outdoor season. A number of the Cavaliers hold the top spot in the weekly ACC rankings after a strong showing at the 49er Classic in Charlotte, NC.
Following a successful first meet in Charlotte, the Cavaliers look to showcase their talents. Leading the ACC in the 800 and 1500 meters, Sharon O’Connor (Lorton, Va.) looks to keep up her momentum and continue her success. Her season best time of 4:26.60 led her to first place at the 49er Invitational.
The distance team, led by fourth-year Melanie Matthews (Waynesboro, Va.) has had a solid start to the outdoor season. Matthew’s ACC leading time of 10:00.09 in the 3000m steeplechase earned her third place at the 49er Invitational. At last year’s meet, Matthews placed second in the steeplechase with a NCAA provisionally qualifying time.
The field events, dominated by seasoned fourth years and eager first years, showcase a bevy of talent. Graduate student Inhar Chong (Fairfax, Va.) leads the women’s team in the hammer and discus throws.
Both men’s sprint and distance teams hold top spots in the ACC rankings. Fourth-year McGavock Dunbar (Birmingham, Al.) followed a solid indoor season with a top-ranking first indoor meet. Placing 1st in the 800 at the 49er Invitational, Dunbar looks to continue his excellence at the relays this weekend. Dunbar’s performance in the 800m landed him a top spot in the ACC rankings.
The distance team is lead by fourth-year Matt Ruhl (Somerdale, NJ) and has hopes of top rankings for this weekend’s meet. Ruhl’s season best time of 9:18.82 in the 3000m steeplechase scored him first place for the event at the 49er Invitational.
The men’s relay team holds top rankings in the ACC.