Paul and Richards post strong second day of Raleigh Relays

By Caleb Scott

ADA — Senior Kendra Paul (Ada) and junior Emily Richards (Delaware/Hays) both posted strong performances on the final day of the Raleigh Relays hosted by North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C.

Paul finished 11th overall in the javelin with a throw of 37.83 meters.

The toss currently ranks 11th nationally and is the third farthest throw in school history in the event.

"Kendra had a pretty good day," said head coach Jason Maus. "The wind really played a big role in the competition today. her last throw was a really solid throw. This was really the first big meet she has been to and it was great to see her perform well. Kendra definitely has a lot of potential and room to grow and we are excited to see what else she can do."

Richards finished second overall and was the first collegiate athlete to cross the finish line in the 800-meter run, falling only to professional runner Kenyetta Iyevbele in the event.

The junior posted the fastest time in the country after finishing the race in 2:06.06.

"Today was just typical Emily," said Maus. "After her race yesterday she felt a little off in warmups but really had a good race. The entire race got out to a fast start and she hung back for a while. On the final lap she really made her move and closed out the race really well. She finished second overall because she ran out of track. This was an exciting race."

Northern returns to the track on Saturday, Apr. 1 as they compete in the Centre (Ky.) Invitational.