Winter Continues Track History Qualifies for Quarterfinals at NCAA West Prelims

FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas – In cloudy, humid conditions, Pepperdine senior Karl Winter qualified for the quarterfinals of the 1,500 meters with a third-place finish in his heat at the NCAA West Preliminary on Wednesday night.

Winter (Stockton, Calif./Saint Mary's HS) crossed the finish line in a time of 3:46.24, which was good for 24th overall in the event. With his third-place finish, he collected an automatic qualifying spot in Friday's quarterfinal race.

"The focus today was on running a smart race and qualifying to the next round. Karl executed the plan perfectly," said head coach Lauren Floris. "I'm so proud of him! Now to recover, reset and get ready for Friday."

He had good pace through the first three laps, with a nice showing to get the third or fourth spot on the track for the final lap. Once he heard the ring on the bell-lap, he kicked on the jets and took hold of the third spot on the final curve.

"I spent the last few weeks fine-tuning the details, working on my closing speed and making sure I was mentally calm and confident. I think those things showed today, I felt more prepared than my appearance at NCAA West last season," said Winter. "Last year I wasn't able to control my nerves as well, while this year I tempered the pressure and just got through to the next round. I'm excited to earn another chance to run the 1,500 for Pepperdine on Friday — it's my favorite event and I think I have as good of a chance as anyone to advance to nationals."

"Karl ran a great race and was in full control throughout. We are primed and excited for Friday," said assistant coach Victor Pataky. "We've made big jumps in the program and Karl's qualification for the quarterfinals is a testament to that."

Winter will compete in the 1,500 meter quarterfinals on Friday, May 27 at 5:15 p.m. CT. In order to advance to the semifinals at the 2022 NCAA Track and Field National Championships in Eugene, Ore., he will need to either finish in the top five of his 12-man heat, or be one of the next two fastest times from the two heats.

Winter will also race later Friday night in the men's 5,000 meters beginning at 8:10 p.m. In order to move forward in the 5,000 meters, he will need to either finish in the top five of his 12-man heat, or be one of the next two fastest times from the two heats.

Winter Continues Track History Qualifies for Quarterfinals at NCAA West Prelims

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