Red Devils Deliver Strong Performance at SLIAC Indoor Championships

ELSAH, Ill. – The Eureka cross country and distance team put together a strong performance at the SLIAC Indoor Track Championships on Saturday. The women's team earned 8 points for an 8th-place team finish, while the men's team tallied 20 points to place 7th overall.

Head Coach Chris Robinson praised the team's effort and resilience, emphasizing their determination despite challenging winter training conditions.

"We had an excellent showing at the SLIAC Indoor Championship," Robinson said. "As a team, it was the most well-rounded effort since we have returned to competition. Coach Ian and I are really proud of how hard they have worked and the effort they put out in yesterday's meet."

On the men's side, Bailey Webster (East Peoria, Ill./East Peoria) continued his stellar season, breaking his own school record in the mile with a time of 4:38.05, securing 2nd place. He followed up with another podium finish in the 3000m, taking 3rd place in 9:24.25. Merdi Ilonga (Bloomington, Ill./Bloomington) displayed remarkable resilience in the 400m, overcoming a stumble out of the blocks to finish 4th in 52.00. Jose Amador (Kempton, Ill./Tri-Point) bounced back from a tough mile race to win his heat in the 800m and finish 8th overall.

For the women's team, Rachel Fisher (Metamora, Ill./Metamora) put together a strong 800m race, finishing 4th in 2:44.08 and staying near the top of the conference rankings. Emily Baker (Washington, Ill./Washington) delivered a season-best performance in the mile, placing 7th in 6:36.78.

MEN'S RESULTS

400m: Merdi Ilonga – 52.00 (4th)
400m: Hayden Skaggs – 1:11.64 (SB)
800m: Jose Amador – 2:15.76 (8th)
Mile: Bailey Webster – 4:38.05 (PR, School Record, 2nd)
Mile: Jose Amador – 5:14.73
3000m: Bailey Webster – 9:24.25 (3rd)

WOMEN'S RESULTS

400m: Isabella Carbajal – 1:16.14 (8th)
800m: Rachel Fisher – 2:44.08 (4th)
Mile: Emily Baker – 6:36.78 (SB, 7th)
Mile: Odessa Grove – 7:48.91

UP NEXT

The Red Devils will now turn their focus to the outdoor track season, aiming to build on their momentum as they prepare for the Rose-Hulman Early Bird Invite on March 22 in Terre Haute, Ind.