Masters of the Univers-ity
You have heard of Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Superman, the Mighty Thor, the Incredible Hulk, and Captain America, but they were not present for this Independence Invitational (though they are always invited). Nonetheless, though these Master’s athletes may not be Master’s of the Universe, their record setting performances on this Sunday afternoon at the University @ Albany clearly made an impact on the record books of the Independence Invitational, and the Empire State Liberty Tour.
The USATF Adirondack Open & Master’s Championships have been hosted by the Independence Invitational for the past three (3) years, but this year there were more than 40 records broken in the Open & Master’s divisions, and in several events, both Track & Field. Probably the most celebrated performance was that of Mary Finn (Pictured Above) as she set records in the 3000m Run, 1500m Run, and the 800m Run. According to Anthony Mills, Executive Producer of the Empire State Liberty Tour, “We are pleased to have so many records broken at this meet among these divisions, but that which stands out for us would be the record number of participating athletes. There was a 25% increase in 2008 over the 2007 season among Open & Master’s athletes, but even better is the fact that so many of them were women!” He continues, “Not only was there a substantail increase in participation this year, but since hosting this event there has been a 300% increase in participation among Open & Master’s athletes. We truly hope to see that continue over the next three (3) years.”
The Independence Invitational was the final regular season meet of the Empire State Liberty Tour Track & Field Series, but for 2008 they will host the East Region Open & Club Championships, which will be held at Ichabod Crane High School on July 5th, beginning at 9:00 am. This meet will draw athletes from 13 USATF Associations in the eastern half of the US, and will award nearly $1,500.00 in Prize Money. Be sure to set aside time to attend this event, and to join in all of the fun and exciting competition. There will be several great performances, and a few more broken records, but that is what records are set for.
Please scroll down for more pictures of record setting performances from the Independence Invitational. If you are over the age of 19, be sure to start your preparations and training for the 2009 Open & Master’s Championships. The Empire State Liberty Tour, Getting You Back On Track!
