Despite the snowy and difficult weather, the St. John’s men’s and women’s track and field teams have been able to keep training and improving.
On Feb. 7 and 8, the teams participated in the 96th annual Verizon Millrose Games held at Madison Square Garden. The Storm had the opportunity to take the field with some of the greatest athletes in the world.
In men’s weight throw, graduate student Jason Goulart placed fifth with a toss of 17.50m.
In women’s weight throw, the Storm had three top ten finishes, with sophomores Blessing Egwu, Brandy Bradford and Judy Owens placing seventh, eighth and tenth respectively, with throws of 15.14m, 14.74m and 14.47m.
In track relays, the men’s team placed second in both the 4×800 and 4×400 with times of 8:01 and 3:23.
Meanwhile, the women earned a respectable fourth place finish in the women’s 4×400 relay with a time of 3:59.
St. John’s Head Coach Jim Hurt was thoroughly pleased with the results.
“I think we did a fairly good job,” Hurt said. “We were hoping to win, but getting second was good.”
Hurt was also pleased about the individual accomplishments.
“I thought Goulart made a great effort in the weight throw and the ladies were very good, including Owens who posted a personal best,” Hurt said.
As far as the overall experience the team had gained at the Garden, Hurt said, “the Millrose Games bring the best athletes to New York City. Hanging out and warming up there for freshmen and sophomores helps them mature and gain more experience. They gain a lot from the atmosphere and performing in front of the crowd, so the rest of the season becomes less threatening.”
Goulart pointed out the team’s commitment to finishing the season strong, because men’s track and field will cease to exist in May.
“For underclassmen, there will be no more meets, and they have to decide what to do about their athletic careers and whether or not to stay at St. John’s,” Goulart said. “As a captain and being a senior, I feel you have to go out with a bang and go to the championships to win and establish personal records.
“This is how we all want to finish track and field off – on a good note.”
Next up will be the Collegiate Invitational at the Armory on Feb. 14.
“The Collegiate Invitational will hold the top 25 teams in the country, so we’re going to get another taste of high competition,” Hurt said. “Hopefully, we will raise our level for the Big East title, and get the best out of everyone while staying healthy.”
All in all, it seems as if the Johnies have gained valuable experience from the Millrose Games.
The level of competition has gone up, and they are now more prepared to finish the season strong, with a potential Big East Championship in their sights.
