[Updated 5/24 at 4:50 p.m.]

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Megan Geraets and Kate Carlson competed at the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships on Thursday and Friday, with both juniors racing in the 200-meter prelims, Geraets competing in the long jump, and Carlson running the 100-meter prelim. 

Geraets started Thursday in the long jump for the Gusties. The Mankato native took 16th overall with a mark of 5.51 meters (18-1) on her third attempt, earning Second Team All-America honors. Rainah Dunham of Ursinus won the event with a jump of 5.98 meters (19-7.5) in the finals. 

"I'm really proud of the season Megan had long jumping," said Assistant Coach Billy Visto. "Multiple personal records, the outdoor school record, and ending the season at nationals are huge accomplishments. We had some ups and downs throughout the season, but I'm extremely happy for her to end at nationals and improve on her long jump seed."

Carlson and Geraets both raced in the 200-meter prelims Thursday evening. Carlson, racing in heat one, finished in 24.82. The performance put her 19th overall in her NCAA Outdoor debut. Geraets took 13th overall, finishing fourth in heat two with a time of 24.33 while garnering Second Team All-America. 

"It took some really great performances to make finals," said Head Coach Aaron Lund. "Megan ran her second best 200-meter ever and Kate ran her third best 200-meter ever. I am proud of how they competed and how well they represented Gustavus. It was a good experience and something that they will use to come back stronger than ever. Kate and Megan have had an incredible season. They have given so much to this program and conference. I am so proud of them."

Carlson then raced in the 100-meter prelims Friday afternoon and took sixth place in the third heat with a time of 11.94. Her time, which was the second best of her career, finished 13th overall for Second Team All-America, missing the finals by just 0.13.

"I'm so grateful for this weekend and having the opportunity to compete at nationals again," Carlson said. "This season has been my favorite one yet, and I owe the thanks to my teammates, coaches, and family. I'm so proud of Meg and I for giving it our all this whole year. It's been a blast competing together, till next year!" 

"It has been so fun running and jumping this season, and ending with nationals makes it all the more special," Geraets said. "I set personal bests in all of my events this year, and I couldn't be more proud of the success our team had at the conference meet. Thank you to my coaches and teammates for a wonderful season and I can't wait for next year!"