Track and field started its outdoor season on a high note at the Southern Alabama Jaguar Opener over the weekend, as two men won events. Redshirt freshman Moses Aloiloi and sophomore Chris Lowery won the 1,500 meter and the 3,000 meter race, respectively, in their inaugural track and field meet with Tulane.

Aloiloi posted a time of 4:03.05, while Lowery took the title with a time of 8:59.44. Lowery’s time ranks 9th best in Tulane history in the 3,000 meter race.

“I feel great being ranked and I’m really honored,” Lowery said. “I do hope to climb higher on that list and continue to improve. I want to break 1:50 in the 800 and break 3:43 in the 1500. I want to be in the running for the conference title for both of those events.”

Tulane director of track and field Eric Peterson said he was proud of his team’s performance in the opening meet.

“[Aloiloi and Lowery] in particular are going to really lead our men’s team this year,” Peterson said. “The two of them are both excellent distance runners and we’re excited for the future for the two of them as well as the rest of the kids.”

Aloiloi said his performance was excellent for his morale, but more importantly, for the overall success of the team.

“Every time I win I feel happy and proud of myself,” Aloiloi said. “It’s [both] good for me and Tulane [since it contributes] to the final points of the team.”

In addition to the success of Aloiloi and Lowery, 12 other athletes set new personal bests. Freshman Nicole Kauffman recorded a hammer throw mark of 42.53 meters (139-6), which ranks No. 4 in Tulane school history. Freshman Sarah Foster finished No. 3 in the javelin with a mark of 37.37 meters (122-7), which ranks No. 10 in school history.

“[Kauffman’s throw] was nearly a 20-foot personal-record from her top high school throw,” Peterson said. “That’s pretty significant because she has been throwing the weight indoors but she is a much better hammer thrower.” 

Peterson said he believes that the team’s performance at the meet shows that this track and field season will be filled with much success.

“It’s an encouraging start for our athletes,” Peterson said. “I’m glad they were able to channel the excitement to compete and have that lead to positive results. I think we really got off to a good start.” 

The Wave will next travel to Lake Charles, Louisiana to compete in the McNeese State Invitational March 14.

http://www.tulanegreenwave.com/sports/c-track/recaps/030715aaa.html