Hurwitz Sprinting to Success

PALATINE, Ill. – Sophomore Stephanie Hurwitz (Rolling Meadows, Ill./Fremd) has some lofty goals for the Harper College women's track and field team at nationals next weekend. The sprinter wants a national title for the team and at the very least a better finish than last year (T-7^th).

Hurwitz, who will be competing in four events at the national meet, is looking to earn major accolades at the national meet. She won't have to wait that long to receive recognition, as she has been named the 19^th Harper College Athlete of the Week and first-ever women's track and field athlete to win the award.

Hurwitz will compete individually in the 100m and 200m at nationals. She will also run in the 4x100m and 4x400m relays at the NJCAA Division III National Championship in Utica, N.Y.  next weekend.

She said that while the grind of a college track season has taken its toll, she feels much stronger than last year after she dealt with mono and missed half of the season.

"She is in better shape. Her workouts and times show her effort," said Harper head coach Renee Zellner. "She is our number one sprinter and has shown enthusiasm and leadership among the sprinters."

The sophomore comes into the national meet, hosted by Mohawk Valley Community College, ranked eighth in the 200m (PR of 27.20 seconds) and tied-eighth (PR of 13.19 seconds) in the 100m. The top eight finishers earn points for their team.

"Anything can happen. The final steps in the race are all that matter," she said.

Hurwitz, plans on double majoring in psychology and criminal justice, savors every moment of being a part of the Harper track and field team.

"The friends I made have been great. You're with them every day and get close to them," she said.