CHICO – A 2013 season filled with incredible performances and conference crowns was made even sweeter Tuesday with the announcement that 15 Chico State track & field athletes have qualified to compete for All-America status May 23-25 at the NCAA Track & Field Championships. Eight members of the ’Cats’ men’s track & field team and seven Wildcat women will set their sights on bringing home national titles in 18 events at Colorado State University-Pueblo’s Neta & Eddie DeRose ThunderBowl.
The 15 athletes heading to the NCAA Track & Field Championships is the largest contingent of Wildcats to compete since sending 17 to nationals in 2009.
The Chico State men will be led by junior J Patrick Smith, who will be defending his 2012 national championship in the decathlon. Isaac Chavez, an All-American in 2011, will be making his third straight appearance in the NCAA Track & Field Championships, representing the Wildcats in both the 5,000- and 10,000-meter runs.
Anthony Costales returns to the national stage for the second straight year in the men’s 10,000-meter run.
Dayne Gradone makes his first trip to the NCAA Track & Field Championships, competing in the 5,000- and 10,000-meter runs. Adrian Sherrod is among the field in the 5,000-meter run, while Alex McGuirk will take part in the 3,000-meter steeplechase.
Theodore Elsenbaumer will join teammate Smith in the decathlon field, and Anthony Palermini, who posted a Provisional Qualifying time just four days ago, will represent Chico State in the men’s 1,500-meter run.
Amy Schnittger heads up the Chico State women, vying for her second consecutive All-America honor in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. Bridget McClarrinon is back at the NCAA Track & Field Championships for the second straight year, competing in the javelin.
Kasey Barnett makes her first appearance in national competition, representing Chico State in the women’s pole vault and long jump. Seniors Robin Hannah and Paige Henker wrap up their Wildcat careers competing for All-America honors – Hannah will be among the field in the heptathlon, while Henker will be part of the 10,000-meter run.
Ayla Granados and Sara Mikesell round out Chico State’s “Fantastic 15,” competing for the Wildcats in the women’s 1,500- and 10,000-meter run, respectively.
CLICK HERE for a complete list of NCAA Track & Field Championships participants and meet schedule.
