As the saying goes, there is no place like home. This saying is especially true when it comes to athletics.
The Utah track and field team will experience playing at home as it hosts the Utah Spring Classic today at the McCarthy Family Track and Field complex. With last year having been the inaugural version of the event, the Utes are looking to make this year just as successful — if not more so.
“It is very exciting,” said head coach Kyle Kepler. “This is just a step for our program as it continues to grow. With this fairly new facility, it gives us the opportunity to have an event like this each and every year. It is a chance for our entire team — but especially our seniors — to compete at home and gain some recognition.”
Since the Classic is the only time Utah is at home each season, thrower Destanae Howerton-Davis is looking forward to competing in familiar surroundings.
“It is always fun competing in front of a home crowd,” Howerton-Davis said. “You’ve got your family and friends watching you, but not only that — everyone is chasing those stadium records. Since we don’t compete here often, there is always a good chance to get your name in the record books. So those two things combined is a lot of motivation to do the best you can.”
Joining Utah today will be Boise State and Idaho State as well as in-state schools BYU, Utah Valley University and Utah State University.
“Although this meet won’t be the biggest meet, it will have quality,” Kepler said. “Boise State is a well-rounded team while Idaho State always has some good individuals. Of course, there is always competition within the state schools, so this meet will definitely have the quality of a bigger meet.”
Having competed well during the last few weeks, the Utes are looking to continue to build momentum.
“It is still early in the season, but this meet is the perfect opportunity to get a personal best,” Howerton-Davis said. “What better way to perform your best than in front of all your fans?”
While the main focus of the day will be on the track and field action, the Utes will be hosting other events, such as a shoe donation drive and a kids race. There will also be a presentation to honor Utah’s seniors.