April 4, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ---- The Samford track and field team moves into the second half of the outdoor season this Saturday, April 5, as they participate in the Gem of the Hills Track and Field Invitational hosted by fellow Ohio Valley Conference member Jacksonville State.

This year's meet features the largest competitive field in the history of the event. Eighteen schools and 450 athletes are slated to take part in the meet. JSU edged out Alabama State by two points on the women's side last year to claim the title. The Samford women finished fourth in 2007. Alabama State took the 2007 men's title by a large margin with Alabama-Huntsville coming in second and Samford in third. All teams return this year to try for their chance at the title.

Competition will begin at 8 a.m. with the women's hammer throw, followed shortly after by the men's hammer throw. All other field events will start at 10 a.m. The days' first running event is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

A full recap of Samford's performance in Saturday's event will be available on www.samfordsports.com at the conclusion of the event.