Trackmen sparkle in Kane Invitational

The Penn State men's indoor track team sent a strong message to the rest of the Big Ten by tearing up the competition Saturday at the Kane Invitational at Cornell.

The Nittany Lions dominated a strong field of 60 teams, taking first in nine events. Penn State coach Harry Groves said he was pleased with his team's impressive outing.

"We had a good showing overall," he said. "We did pretty well in every event down the line."

Groves said the Lions are where they need to be heading into next week's Big Ten championships in Iowa City. He added that although his team is not one of the favorites at Big Tens, anything can happen.

"We're in good shape right now. We have a viable chance in every event," Groves said. "The Big Ten meet is very unpredictable because it's so competitive. Last year we weren't given a chance in the outdoor championships, and we finished third. So, anything is possible."

Several Lions achieved personal bests in their respective events at the Invitational. Damon Reed, who captured first in the 200-meter dash (22.2), ran a career-best 6.49 in the 55-meter dash. Sean Vego earned a personal record, taking first in the triple jump (48 feet 3½ inches), while Joe Loner ran his best time of the year in winning the 800-meter run (1:51).

Reed said Penn State can do some damage next week, as long as it stays healthy.

"I think we have a good shot of doing well," Reed said. "The main key for us is to stay healthy for the meet. If we do that we should be fine."

Other Lions who were victorious Saturday included Neal McNutt, whose throw of 64 feet 3 inches made him an NCAA provisional qualifier for the second straight week, Che Arosemena (1000-meter run), Kevin Spencer (400-meter run) and Nate Goins (55-meter hurdles).

Penn State's dominance of the meet carried over into the relays, where it easily captured victories in the 4 x 400 and 4 x 800 relays.