Marion, Indiana - The men's track and field team began competition yesterday at the NAIA Outdoor Track & Field Championships. The three day meet is being contested on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University. 

Highlighting day one for the men was Jake Van Tassell's performance in the prelims of the 400 meter hurdles. Jake time of 52.96 placed him third in his heat, but he advanced on time to Friday's final.  Jake's time was just off a personal best and has him seeded fifth in going into the nine man final. A total of 31 athletes competed in the preliminary round. 

Also competing for the Saints were Brian Langlois and Ben Hardy in the 3000 meter steeplechase. Langlois finished in 22nd with a time of 9:39.03, while Hardy finished in 33rd with a time of 9:48.53. 

The Saints will compete in preliminary rounds that feature Nathan Iacona (400 Meters), Edward Frey (5000 Meters) and the Men's 4x400 Meter Relay today at the Championships.