BYU track and field opens season with Cougar Collegiate Invitational

PROVO, Utah – BYU men’s and women’s track and field opens the 2015 indoor season this weekend hosting the BYU Cougar Collegiate Invitational in the Smith Fieldhouse.

“This first home meet is always a great opportunity because everybody on the team will have a chance to compete here,” BYU head coach Ed Eyestone said. “Roommates, family and friends will be able to come and watch the athletes perform. Regardless of if they’re racing in uniform, or running unattached to try to make the traveling squad, it’s a great opportunity for them to see where they’re at.”

The women’s pentathlon and men’s heptathlon highlight the first day of events beginning Friday, at 12 p.m. MST. The field events will also take place starting at noon and conclude shortly after 5 p.m.

On Saturday the meet’s first event is scheduled for 10 a.m. with the last event beginning at 4:30 p.m. Most track events take place on Saturday.

On the men’s side, Eyestone highlighted Braydon Bringhurst and Shaquille Walker as athletes to keep an eye on.

“Braydon Bringhurst is vaulting very well,” Eyestone said. “He has some high goals for himself. He’s going to do some amazing things.”

Bringhurst qualified for indoor nationals last season in the pole vault and hopes to return to nationals this season.

“Shaquille Walker has probably been the highlight in terms of guys running fast and looking really good,” Eyestone said. “His main event is the 800-meters, but he’ll also be a strong performer in in the 4X400-meter relay.”

For the women, Eyestone has high expectations for Nicole Laws and Anginae Monteverde.

"Nicole had an amazing freshman year and hopefully she’ll build on that,” Eyestone said. “She’s been healthy and looking good. Anginae did a great job during our intra-squad meet in December. I’m looking forward to some good things from her.”

Angela Shields, a top returning sprinter, will be one to watch as she competes in the 60-meter hurdles, 300-meters, and 4x400-meter relay.

“I think we can expect great things from both men’s and women’s,” Shields said. “We have a lot of returners and everyone is really excited. We’re stronger, faster, and in better shape than last year.”

The complete schedule of events can be found on the event info page on BYUCougars.com.

Results will be posted throughout Friday and Saturday on RunnerCard.com.