Weather setbacks limiting spring action

The girls track season was off to a good start when last week's cold and rain put a halt to most of the activity.

Downers Grove North Invite and Leyden Invite both were run in the cold and drizzle on Friday, but all of Saturday's action was cancelled.

The field events, sprinters and hurdlers have taken the brunt of the attack from the weather.

"The big thing is injuries," said Conant coach Bob Borczak whose team features Toni Graham who finished second in both the 100 and 200 at state last year. "You have to be extra careful when it's cold."

Besides injuries the cancellations have also accelerated each team's season.

"We're running out of time to experiment," said Barrington coach Jody Gitelis of her defending state champions. "We're trying to fit the pieces of the puzzle together."

Springing back into action: Barrington will have an opportunity to start putting the piece of the puzzle together on Saturday at the Glenbard West Invite.

The 16-team field includes fellow Mid-Suburban League schools Hersey and Wheeling.

"The field is excellent," said Gitelis of the Invite, which includes Hinsdale Central and Downers Grove South. "We're real excited and we are hoping to rise to the competition."

Conant will travel to Lake Park Invite and Graham is looking forward to the competition.

"She needs the big meets," said Borczak, "She enjoys the tition."

Buffalo Grove and Leyden will also be in the field.

Stack to Illinois: Wheeling's Amber Stack looked a bit lighter on the track at Downers Grove North on Friday, sweeping both the 3,200 and 1,600 races.

It may have been because Stack committed to run cross country and track for the University of Illinois.

Stack won the 2004 Class AA state title in cross country, she also medaled in 2005 (4th place) and 2006 (25th place).

The Wildcats senior also has won two state medals in track taking fifth in the 3,200 in 2005 and sixth in 2006.

Stack admitted it was tough decision, but she is looking forward to continuing her running career at Illinois.

Looking ahead: The MSL Divisional meets will be on Monday, with Fremd hosting the MSL West and Elk Grove hosting the East. Both meets at 4:30 p.m. with finals starting sometime after 6 p.m.