Hoosier relays prepare team for Big Ten

The Hoosiers got a simulation of the Big Ten Championships this weekend as they played host to the two-day Hoosier Relays.\n"Overall, I think it was a great meet with some good competition, and this will help us prepare for the Big Ten and the NCAA," coach Randy Heisler said.\nJunior All-American John Jefferson, aiming for a fast mile next weekend at Notre Dame, ran a 1,200-meter leg on the second-place finishing distance medley relay. After fighting through early traffic, Jefferson closed his leg in 2:58, right on pace to break 4 minutes. \n"I started getting a little tired towards the end, but it's only because I had to work myself," Jefferson said. "When I'm running in the pack next weekend it'll be easier."\nSenior Rodney Hollis, who will try for an NCAA-qualifying mark in the 800 next weekend, endured an early fast pace-setter to win the race in 1:52.69.\n"I don't have an exact goal for the season, I just want to place high in the national championships," Hollis said.\nSophomore All-American David Neville joined Hollis on the 1,600 relay and also finished second in the open 400-meters to former collegiate star Godfrey Herring. Neville posted his first NCAA provisional qualifying mark of the season in 47.33. \n"I can't wait for Notre Dame," Neville said. "I know times will drop pretty quickly."\nIU also got wins from junior Ryan Ketchum in the shot put with a mark of 18.06.\nIU is back in action next weekend at Notre Dame's Mayo Classic in South Bend.\n-- Contact Staff Writer Rob DeWitte at rdewitte@indiana.edu.