Countdown to championship begins for 'M'

Winning the Big Ten championship has two effects on the Michigan women's track team's reputation.

The title earned the Wolverines instant respect around the conference, lofting expectations to the level of perennial superpowers Illinois and Wisconsin.

But in winning the indoor portion, Michigan has also placed a big red bulls-eye on its back. Both the Fighting Illini and the Badgers will be out for revenge.

The Wolverines will get some of their big guns back at full strength in time for the conference meet from May 22-24. Distance runners Julie Froud and Marcy Akard have spent the outdoor season rehabilitating nagging injuries and should be ready to go.

LOUIS BROWN/Daily In typical fashion, Tania Longe will lead the Michigan women's track team charge on to the Mt. San Antonio College Relays this weekend. The Wolverines will be targeted until the Big Ten Championships on May 22-24.

Unlike the indoor season, when the Wolverines did not meet conference rivals prior to Big Tens, the outdoor campaign has provided opponents with many chances to see Michigan up close. Ohio State has competed against the Wolverines twice this season, while Wisconsin and Purdue were on hand at this weekend's Mt. San Antonio College Relays.

Potential suitors for the outdoor crown will have to wait another month for a crack at the Wolverines. Coach James Henry has loaded up the schedule for his squad with no off-weeks in the month before Big Tens.

Michigan's upcoming meets will be a bit closer to home. After touring North America with trips to Jamaica and a double-visit to California, the Wolverines will be making a cameo appearance at the Drake Relays in Des Moines, Iowa, this Friday and Saturday.

Henry is hopeful that winding down the travel in the next month - as well as the training - will help his team put forth its best effort at the big meets.

Two home events will provide Michigan's faithful with an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the tracksters. The Wolverines host the Phil Diamond and Paddock Invitationals on consecutive Saturdays, May 9 and 16.

More than likely, the Paddock Invite will serve as a taper-down the weekend before Big Tens. Henry's history shows he allows and encourages runners who need the rest to take it, so the lineup may not be intact. The invitational also serves as a final opportunity for runners on the bubble to record a qualifying performance.

04-20-98