Things do not always go as planned in the world of women's track. Inclement weather forced seven of the 20 events at this past weekend's Lady Lion Invitational to be held indoors, raising an interesting question.

Which do the athletes prefer: competing in or outdoors?

A non-competitor might make the assumption that the indoor meets provide a consistently pleasant climate, and would then be preferred. But the athletes tend to see it another way.

"Outdoors is what we look forward to all season, team captain Carmen Mann said. "People get into it more. It's more fun."

The unavoidable move back to the Greenberg Indoor Sports Complex had some noticeable effects on the team.

"After competing outdoors already, you hate to come back inside," said sprinter Leslie Hummer, who believed she could have performed better outside.

"It's nice to have the change. We get tired of running indoors," said sophomore Wendy Nelson. "Because the indoor track is shorter, you have to run more laps. Mentally the race seems longer than it would outdoors."

Coach Teri Jordan was nonetheless pleased with her team's effort.

"These were by no means ideal weather conditions. But I feel we made the best of it and did a fine job," she said.

Jordan said that she considered canceling some of the events, but did not out of consideration for visiting Ohio State. The event was the first of the outdoor season for the Lady Buckeyes.

"Ohio State had a very positive attitude toward the whole situation," she said. "They tried to make the best of it. I believe that this was a good start for them."

She also explained that indoor qualifying performances count for post-season outdoor competition, and Penn State turned in two.

The spring weather in general may be the reason for the shortage of home meets, like the invitational.

"It seems like we used to get more teams," said Mann. "People might not like to come here because of the inconsistent weather."

Jordan said that she tried to reschedule the invite for yesterday, but Ohio State had a previous commitment.

Another reason that the athletes prefer outdoor competition is more obvious.

"It's nice to get outside," said hepthalete performer Deb Ford. "I just like the fresh air."