Larson wins MIAC pentathlon; sets new school record

Sports Information
March 1, 2012

ST. PAUL, Minn. - Dani Larson won the MIAC indoor track and field pentathlon with a score of 3421, setting a new school record and moving to the #2 spot nationally.

Larson clocked 9.46 in the 60 meter hurdles, earning 816 points, her highest of the five combined events. Kaari Jensen of Concordia Moorhead edged her out in the following heat running just one hundredth of a second faster to take a two-point lead after the first event.

In the high jump, Larson cleared 1.66 meters (5-5.25 feet) to pick up 806 points and move into the lead after winning the event.

Next was Larson's weakest event, the shot put. She managed to set a personal record with a throw of 8.32 meters (27-3.75 feet). It was good enough for 420 points and fifth place.

Larson had another seasonal best performance in the long jump (5.06 meters/16-7.25 feet) to place third with 576 points behind Clare Murn and Mandy Witschen of the College of St. Benedict.

After four events, Larson was in the lead, but just barely. She knew she had to run a good time in the 800 to stay in the lead and have a chance at nationals. At the gun, Larson shot out to the front of the pack. She lead the entire race with Witschen, Murn and Jensen on her heels but managed to hold them off for the win. She crossed the line in 2:21.53, seven seconds faster than her seed time.

This was Larson's first appearance at the MIAC indoor track and field championships. The talented rookie will return to lead the Oles on Friday and Saturday. She is scheduled to compete in the 60 meter hurdles and the 400 on Friday and the high jump and long jump on Saturday.

Contact media relations specialist Mike Ludwig at (507) 786-3834 or ludwigm@stolaf.edu.