KEVIN JENISON

GoSycamores.com

EUGENE, ORE. ? Indiana State junior Kylie Hutson and sophomore Major Clay were in competition at the USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships Sunday with Hutson tying for 12th overall in the women's pole vault and Clay failing to make the opening height in the men's high jump.

“Kylie handled herself extremely well especially against the circumstances of competing against the best jumpers in the United States,” Jeff Martin, Indiana State assistant track & field coach, said. “She had an excellent season. I know it didn't end like she really wanted it to but for her to win two nationals titles and then come out here representing herself and Indiana state was just outstanding. This was a good end to a great year.”

Hutson cleared the opening height of 13'9.25” (4.20 meters) on her third attempt. It was the highest opening height of the season. The Sycamore missed on her three attempts at the next height of 14'3.25” (4.35 meters). She finished tied for 12th overall but was one of the top five collegians competing.

“The toughest thing for Major was the level of competition, the number of competitors (25) and the starting height, 7'0.5”,  which he has never started at before,” John Gartland, Indiana State track & field coach, said. “He had two or three attempts that were excellent but just didn't get over bar. He has been battling tendinitis in the knee the last several days and there was a really strong tail wind. His experience here will help him in the future.”

The competition wraps up the 2009 season for the Sycamores.