The Wittenberg track teams got their first taste of outdoor competition in 2001 last weekend and competed well as one of just two NCAA Division III schools at the non-scoring University of Indianapolis USTCA Midwest Challenge.

The biggest highlight for the men's team was provided by junior Chris Silliman (Columbus, Ohio/Upper Arlington), who posted a school record in the hammer of 133 feet, six inches. The team's highest finish in the meet was a first place by freshman Michael Klotz (Cincinnati, Ohio/Colerain), who won the javelin throw in his first meet with the team. He posted a mark of 156-5, just less than six feet better than another Wittenberg newcomer, freshman Tim Gaal (Amanda, Ohio/Clearcreek), who was second.

The women's team got a first-place finish from its steadiest performer, sophomore Abi Gerstle (Kettering, Ohio/Fairmont). She won the 1500 meters in a time of 5:00.8. 
Wittenberg hosts the first of four spring events this Friday when the Wittenberg Invitational takes place on March 30. Coming up: the Wittenberg Quad April 12, the Wittenberg Open April 27 and the NCAC Heptathlon/Decathlon April 28-29.