Northridge’s Cole, betters NCAA-leading LJ

By Christopher Hunt

People had been waiting for this race, waiting for Texas senior Leo Manzano to take the baton on the anchor leg – the mile portion -- of the distance medley relay. Manzano snatched the stick already with a lead, Arkansas junior Andy McClary attached to his right shoulder.
McClary sat on Manzano and waited, just as BYU’s anchor did behind McClary, each waiting for Manzano to flinch. Manzano hoped one of them would grow frustrated and take over the pace. Neither happened.
Texas won the men’s distance medley relay at the New Balance Collegiate Invitational in 9:39.92. Arkankas was second in 9:40.64, BYU third in 9:41.34.

“The plan was to go out and try to get that 9:34,” Manzano said referring to the NCAA automatic qualifying time. “We didn’t get it but I’m happy with how we ran.”