PITTSBURG, Kan. – Eastern New Mexico track and field was well represented on the national stage Friday afternoon at the NCAA DII indoor championships.
Senior Timothy Frederick entered the final meet of the indoor season with two chances to compete against the best in Division II. The 2023 all-american proved himself worthy as he posted strong performances in both events.
In the 400m, he looked to carry a slow start. However, he managed to run a smart race and push strong in the closing 50m of the sprint. Frederick decided to go wide and posted the third fastest time (47.06s) among today's competitors to earn a chance to run Saturday evening.
His day was not done as he had the opportunity to race in the 200m just one hour after his first event of the afternoon. Frederick sprinted his way to the fifth fastest finish (21.31s) to earn a second opportunity for a finals appearance. The season-best mark puts him in strong position to score bigger points for ENMU.
"It's really a blessing to make the finals for both. It's a joyous feeling," said Frederick when asked about his two races Friday. "I'm remaining focused for the finals tomorrow. Thanks everyone for your support."
Freshman Grizell Scarlett made the most of her first trip to nationals as she earned second team all-american honors. The Jamaica native tied her season best mark with a 7.46s sprint. She came 0.02s away from closing in on a berth to compete tomorrow in the 60m race.
Scarlett took ninth in the prelims and was the second fastest freshman in the event.
"The atmosphere of this championship will always be one to remember for me. I felt that nerves got the best of me and I didn't have the best start, but I tried to finish strong," said Scarlett on her effort in today's competition. "My first time ever competing indoor and being a freshman, I believe there are great things to come. I want to say thanks to coach Harden, coach Bell, coach Key, coach Owen, and a big thanks to my teammates for sending love from Portales."
The championships conclude tomorrow in Pittsburg, Kansas. Timothy Frederick will run the 400m at 6 p.m. CT and the 200m at 6:45 p.m. CT.
