NORTHFIELD, Minn. - The Gustavus men's and women's track & field teams competed at the St. Olaf Invitational on Friday and Saturday, taking first place in 12 different events. 

The Gustie women were led by Megan Geraets, who won the 400-meter with a time of 58.57, which ranks 28th in NCAA Division III. Geraets also won the long jump with a distance of 17-9.5. Kate Carlson won the 60-meter prelims in 7.98 but did not race the finals. Laura Thauvin took first in the 60-hurdle prelims at 9.70 and then won the finals in 9.58. Chelsea Stahl took second in 9.94 and Emily Podulke third in 10.06.

Alli Graff and Camille Finney finished first and second, respectively, in the pole vault with heights of 11-4.25 and 10-6.0. Graff's mark of 3.46 meters is a lifetime best and ranks first in the MIAC and 23rd in Division III. 

"Alli had struggled a little bit a couple weeks ago moving to a heavier pole," said pole vault coach Dean Aurich. "Once she owned the pole she has really improved. Before she jumped she told me her high school coach from Northfield was at the meet to watch her performance. What an awesome day to reach a new PR!" 

Grace Wermerskirchen and Elsey Hagen went two-three, respectively, in the 3000-meter with times of 11:54.36 and 12:17.83. Kayla Kajer took second in the high jump, clearing 5-1.0. 

The men had a number of first place finishes, including Cohen Stursa in the 400-meter with a time of 52.55. Tennessee Fossen was right behind in second place, clocking in at 52.89. Cole Matetich won the high jump with a height of 6-2.75, while Danny Bies finished second at 6-0.75. Connor McCormick won the heptathlon with a total of 4239 points after taking first in the heptathlon high jump (5-8.0), 1000-meter (2:52.16), and 60-hurdles (8.88). Liam Frommelt took first in the triple jump with a mark of 43-5.0. 

Jonah Johnson and Matthew Berge finished two-three in the 3000-meter, respectively, with times of 9:35.48 and 9:35.92. In the pole vault, Alex Palmer took second with a height of 13-9.25. 

"I thought we took advantage of a great opportunity tonight," said assistant coach Brenden Huber. "Championship atmosphere and energy to feed off of for the 5k's. We came in with a game plan and executed very well across the board. Really cool to see our Gusties moving up through the packs in their respective heats and racing smart and with poise."

Gustavus next competes at the MSU-Mankato Mark Schuck Open & Multi on Friday and Saturday.