Feb. 6, 2006

NEW YORK, N.Y. - The Tulane University women's track and field program enjoyed a weekend trip to New York City as 10 individuals traveled to the city to compete in the sixth annual New Balance Collegiate Invitational at the New York City Armory, a long-time track and field venue. The Green Wave's trip was financed by the Armory due to the budget constraints from Hurricane Katrina.

"The Armory, as well as all of the teams there, totally embraced Tulane track and field," Green Wave coach Heather Van Norman said. "They really made us feel welcome; they treated us really, really well. It was a great experience for our student-athletes."

Tulane was led by its 4x400 relay team and freshman Whitney Hampton, who had an outstanding performance in the 800-meter run. While Hampton placed fifth of 56 entrants in the 800 with a personal-best time of 2:15.36, it was the 4x400 team which had the top highlight as it finished sixth with a time of 3:50.21.

"The girls on the 4x400 won their heat and the crowd really got into it," Van Norman said. "I think it made them proud to be back with Tulane."

The 4x400 team was made up of freshmen Valencia Wilson, Shaina Pelham and Vanessa Kienast and sophomore Kyra Lobbins.

Other competitors for the Green Wave included Kerriann Langley (3000), Andrea Rosemond (60, 200) and Taneekwa Ross (60).

"We traveled to New York with our freshman and sophomores," Van Norman said. "And I am so proud of them. They are becoming more familiar with their races and stepping up the plate every time."

Tulane will compete at the Iowa State Invitational next weekend and is expected to take 14 individuals to the meet.

Tulane Results:
Whitney Hampton
800 Meters: 2:15.36 (5th place) - of 56

Kerriann Langley
3000 Meters: 10:41.34 (31st place)

Kyra Lobbins
60 Meters: 7.93 (56th place)
200 Meters: 25.83 (51st place)

Aubrey Phillips
3000 Meters: 10:34.95 (29th place)

Andrea Rosemond
60 Meters: 7.92 (55th place)
200 Meters: 26.20 (57th place)

Taneekwa Ross
60 Meters: 7.96 (57th place)

Valencia Wilson
400 Meters: 57.23 (27th place)

Tulane
4x400 (Wilson, Pelham, Lobbins, Kienast): 3:50.21 (6th place)