March 16, 2006

BELLINGHAM, Wash. -

JOE SUNNEN, THE BELLINGHAM HERALD

The Western Washington University women's track team spent much of the off-season getting faster. It worked during the indoor season, now they can test it outside.

Freshmen Heidi Dimmitt and Whitney Knox opened eyes at the Great Northwest Athletic Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships this season, with Knox winning the 60-meter dash and Dimmitt entering with the top time in the 200 before a false start.

The Vikings women finished fifth at the championship for the second straight season, but it was encouraging, WWU coach Pee Wee Halsell said.

"We finished fifth, but it was a much stronger fifth than last season," Halsell said. "Our women's team has gotten a lot better. We should have a real good outdoor season."

Leading the way is thrower Jessica Telleria. The senior was the only member of either men's or women's teams to compete in the NCAA Division II National Track and Field Championships last season - she finished 14th in the discus - and could get back again this season.

Junior Kim Bascom provides Western the best chance for a top mark in the triple jump and long jump, while a handful of runner's could fair well in the distance events.

"I'm really encouraged with our women's team," Halsell said.