McGroder Races 400m at Track Nationals

Junior Claire McGroder competed well at the 2009 Division III Track and Field National Championships May 21-23 at Marietta College in Ohio. McGroder clocked 57.67 to finish 5th in her heat, but did not advance to the final.

McGroder -- in only her first year in the sport -- excelled all season, and improved enough during the year to qualify to the National meet. Her national race in Ohio was only her 7th competitive 400 meter ever. McGroder clocked her 2009 season's best of 56.65 in winning the SCIAC Championship meet in late April.

"Claire ran very well at Nationals," said head women's coach Kirk Reynolds. "She ran hard, never gave up, and she learned a lot that will carry over to next season. She had a terrific season, and I'm very pleased with all she's accomplished in one year."