This is what the indoor season has been building to – Collegiate and World championships. Yes, the season has been entertaining.. And several athletes have had the opportunity to test themselves, work on their craft and get ready for the outdoor season. But for those that run outdoors and treat it like a season unto itself, it’s the championships that they do it for. Especially the collegians, because the indoor season is a part of their program. They legit are looking to win titles for their schools, which gives their competition a bit of an “edge” in terms of spirit and excitement. And that is what we will be treated to next. As the Collegiate indoor championships begin tomorrow in Birmingham Alabama.

I say Collegiate Championships actually referring to Division I, because each “Division” will have it’s own championship meet. Making it a great time if you’re a fan of college track and field. Or really a fan of track in general. This post however, will focus on Division I, which is the best of the best!. Events of interest in my opinion.

Women’s 200 – Abby Steiner broker the American Record and became the #2 sprinter ever in the event when she ran 22.09 at the SEC Championships. In an awesome display of sprinting. She gets a chance to repeat as NCAA champion this weekend, and to potentially lower her record. While there is no one in her zip code indoors, Ohio State’s Anavia Battle ran 21.99 outdoors last year, and has the potential to challenge Steiner. As a matter of fact, she’s run within a hundredth of Steiner’s old CR. This race could be closer than expected – and could lead ot another record.

Men’s 60 – Micah Williams is the defending champion and holder of a 6.48 best this season. And while that is not the collegiate leader, few question Williams’ ability in this event. He’s clearly the best starter in an event that is 90% start! However. There are several individuals that have the ability to make the race interesting. Beginning with co-collegiate record holder Terrance Jones from TXTech. Of course those of us that have watched the race realize that Jones caught a flyer, which is why many discount his chances against Williams. However, this is his chance to prove that his “record” was not the result of home cooking. There are also several young men between 6.52 and 6.55, that also have a shot in a race that does not allow for the smallest of mistakes. Including Favour Ashe (Tenn) and Sterling Warner (Louisville). Then there is the spectre of Matt Boling. This could be the race that proves his best event is the Long Jump.

Men’s 400 – Randolph Ross enters as the prohibitive favorite. Apparently he believes this as well since he himself has predicted a WR. Given that he has a 44.0 relay split to his credit, that could be a possibility. However, he should first set his sights on defeating the Florida trio of Patterson, Champion and Willie who have the potential to score big points here. Champion being #2 on the clock this year – and with the perfect name! Mr. Champion ran a 45.04 of his own to win the SEC and looked good doing it. He now knows what this type of race feels like. And collegiate indoor 300 record holder Patterson, has yet to really do his thing in this event in my opinion. So, while Ross is leading the world at 44.83, his margin of error is smaller than one might think. This race should be a burner.

Women’s 60 – Another hot event that is a wide open in my humble opinion. Hurdler/sprinter Grace Stark of Florida. 200 record holder Abby Steiner of Kentucky. Alia Armstrong of LSU, national leader Julien Alford of Texas and Kemba Nelson of Oregon being the primary competitors in this event in my opinion. Any combination of finishes could develop on any given day between these ladies. They are that close in my book. She who starts best could win! By the same token, under 7.20, anything could happen. Don’t blink!

Women’s 60H – Grace Stark and Alia Armstrong return here in what is another very close and fast event. They will be joined by Paula Simon (NCAT), Rayniah Jones (UCF), Ackera Nugent (BAY) and others in what could be the deepest, close finish of the meet. As I fully expect this final to go to the photo! Did I say don’t blink in the women’s 60? Do. Not. Dare. Close. Your. Eyes. Until the results of this race have been announced. In a meet where every event counts, this one will have several important points decided by fractions of a second. Collegiate competition at its best.

Men’s 4×4 – Both the women and men’s relays should be fire at the end of the meet. This rendition features Florida, Iowa and Georgia in what could result in a collegiate record. Indoors, the key to this race is getting to the front early and attempting to control the race. Florida has the best potential to do that, but can’t afford to fall asleep in the middle of the race. Look for a blitzing anchor leg from everyone.

Women’s 4×4 – Arkansas’ women decimated the old collegiate record. The question on the table is, can they repeat the performance? Sounds boring, but this will be another race with legs a blazing! Look for Texas AM and Kentucky to once again chase the Razorbacks around the track in an effort to prevent the sound of “Sooie pig” from erupting post race!

The World Indoor championships will be next weekend, but don’t expect it to outshine this competition. As the NCAA Indoor championships is arguably the top indoor meet on the planet. Get your popcorn ready and your favorite drink at your side. This will be a fun one. f