University of South Florida
USF Open
MTF Solid in Rain-Shortened Home Meet
March 09, 2008 | Track & Field
TAMPA ? The 2008 outdoor season got underway on Friday for the University of South Florida men's track and field team at the USF Open in the midst of blistering wind conditions, but was later cut short due to heavy rains.
Before the meet was called, the Bulls recorded first-place finishes in five of the seven events that were completed.
Sophomore Michael Kursteiner won the high jump competition while achieving a NCAA regional qualifying mark with a 2.10m (6'10.75”) leap. Kursteiner tied his personal record that currently sits him in fifth place all-time at USF.
Seniors Brian Zipler and Errol Blackmon came in second and third respectively behind Kursteiner in the high jump.
In the long jump, sophomore Mikese Morse took first place and also set a new school record after soaring 7.78m (25'6.25”). En route to setting his personal record in the event by just over 17 inches, Morse overtakes the record that was previously held by graduate Jaydian Miller.
Bulls' sophomore Tyler Perkins had a busy day in the field events competing well in three different competitions. The discus throw event was dominated by Perkins as he unleashed a 49.87m (163'7”) toss, taking the event over second-place by 13 inches.
Perkins continued his winning ways in the javelin with a heave of 52.76m (173'1) and then placed second in the hammer throw by flying it 46.83m (153'8”).
In the 1500m run, senior distance runner Carlan Arthur stole the show by cutting the tape first after 4:00.79. USF's Ryan Courtoy followed shortly after in second at 4:03.46.
The Bulls' 4x100m relay team comprised of Armante Marshall, Greg Fontus, Norman Nicholas and D'Andre Ruff used the combination of strong running and smooth handoffs while winning the event with a time of 41.15.
USF will hit the road next weekend to compete in the San Diego St. Invitational on March 14-15.
