In the final day of competition, Jack Anstey wrapped up the NCAA West Preliminary Round for the Redbirds with a career performance in the 1,500-meter run, punching his ticket to the NCAA Championships in Austin, Texas. Anstey's time of 3:41.81 was not only a personal-best for the junior but also an Illinois State school record. The previous record of 3:42.19 was set by MVC Hall-of-Famer and NCAA All-American Christian Goy in 2001 and had stood untouched for 18 years.
"Jack had a fantastic close, running a 56-second last 400-meters to advance in a race with lots of amazing athletes, including the defending NCAA champion," said Director of Track & Field and Cross Country Jeff Bovee.