ISLE FILE
UH's Murray reaches discus finals at NCAAs
Advertiser Staff
University of Hawai'i's Novelle Murray was one of 12 women to qualify for tomorrow's finals in the discus at the NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships yesterday at Sacramento, Calif.
The senior from Surrey, British Columbia, finished third in her flight of 14 and sixth in the field of 28 with a throw of 172 feet, 11 inches.
Texas Tech's D'Andra Carter had the day's best throw of 177-11. Texas' Michelle Carter was second with 177-04, followed by Arizona State's Tai Battle with 176-02.
Arizona State's Sarah Stephens, the national leader in the event who beat Murray in the West Regional two weeks ago, failed to advance after three sub-par throws. Stephens, who advanced to the hammer finals earlier in the day, finished 21st overall in the discus with a best throw of 159-10.
Murray, a three-time Western Athletic Conference champion, will try to become UH's first national champion in 23 years (Gwen Loud won the long jump in 1984).
"Novelle's biggest challenger will be herself," UH head coach Carmyn James said. "She needs to stay mentally focused and not get distracted. If she goes out and does what she is capable of doing, she'll be standing on that podium on Friday."
UH's Annett Wichmann starts competing in the heptathlon today.
BOXING
HAWAI'I BOXERS OUSTED
The final two Hawai'i boxers in the U.S. Championships were beaten yesterday in semifinal bouts at Colorado Springs, Colo.
Daniel Lazano of Bowling Green, Fla., defeated Wailuku, Maui's Keola McKee, 35-11, in a 106-pound bout.
Olympic flyweight Rau'shee Warren of Ohio defeated Waimanalo's Bruno Escalante when the bout was stopped in the third round of their 112-pound fight. Escalante trailed 20-3 when his coach called it off.
TENNIS
FREE EVENT TOMORROW
Honolulu Hale will be the site of an unusual tennis court tomorrow, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free event is being put on by the U.S. Tennis Association's Hawai'i Pacific Section.
Participants can play on a modified court using mini nets, modified racquets and a variety of balls. There will be games and instruction for players of all ages and abilities, from teaching pros and special guests.
The section will have its annual Coaches Workshop June 23 and 24 at the CORP Tennis Complex. It is open to tennis teachers, coaches, physical educators, junior team tennis coaches and USPTA and USPTR pros.
For more information, call Sheila Kurosu (955-6696, ext. 27), Leilani Magee (ext. 31) or visit www.hawaii.usta.com.
