December 1, 2006

(CLEMSON, SC) - The Jackson State University men's indoor track and field team competed in five events and had a successful first day at the Clemson Opener on Friday.

The Tigers won the Distance Medley Relay (DMR) and advanced to the finals in the 60 m high hurdles and the 60 m dash.

JSU's DMR `A' Team, which consisted of Eric Speer, Allan Senegal, William Johnson and Courtney Irby, won its heat with a time of 10.26.49. The Tigers won the same event at last years Clemson Opener with a 10.28 time. The `B' Team finished in fourth place.

In the 60 m hurdles Brandon Woods and Derrick Ray won their heats to advance to Saturday's finals. Woods finished with an 8.28 time and Ray 8.32.

LaVarius Giles posted the fourth fastest time (6.82) in the 60 m dash to qualify for the finals.

"I am pleased with my team," said JSU head coach Edmond Donald. "We are young, but deeper in talent from top to bottom. I look forward to seeing what we can do on Saturday."

The Tigers will also compete in the 4x400 m Relay Saturday in the second day of the Clemson Opener.