UIS Men's Track Tests Speed at IC Thursday Throwdown

Prairie Stars use midseason meet to tune up for upcoming Kip & Kirk Relays

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:08am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a track and field event, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the dynamic motion and energy of the competition.A cubist interpretation of the UIS men's track team's midseason tuneup, highlighting their speed and determination as they prepare for the upcoming Kip & Kirk Relays.Warrensburg Today

The UIS men's track team competed in middle-distance events at the IC Thursday Throwdown, using the meet as a midseason tuneup and a chance to test their speed. River Derby led the way in the 800-meter run, placing seventh, while the team's top 4x400-meter relay squad finished fourth.

Why it matters

This meet provided an opportunity for the UIS men's track team to assess their progress and make any necessary adjustments ahead of the upcoming Kip & Kirk Relays, an important event on their schedule.

The details

In the 800-meter run, River Derby placed seventh with a time of 2:03.66, while teammates Lucas Naugle and Chase Cooley finished 11th and 13th, respectively. UIS also fielded three 4x400-meter relay teams, with the top squad placing fourth in 3:46.67.

  • The UIS men's track team competed in the IC Thursday Throwdown on April 2, 2026.
  • The team will next compete at the Kip & Kirk Relays hosted by UCM in Warrensburg, Missouri, next weekend.

The players

River Derby

A member of the UIS men's track team who placed seventh in the 800-meter run at the IC Thursday Throwdown.

Lucas Naugle

A member of the UIS men's track team who finished 11th in the 800-meter run at the IC Thursday Throwdown.

Chase Cooley

A member of the UIS men's track team who took 13th in the 800-meter run at the IC Thursday Throwdown.

Kaitlin Skeate

The assistant coach of the UIS men's track team, who commented on the team's performance at the IC Thursday Throwdown.

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What they’re saying

“Our men's squad had fun competing today and practicing running on tired legs. They have been working hard, and I'm excited to see what the rest of the season brings for this group!”

— Kaitlin Skeate, Assistant Coach

What’s next

The Prairie Stars return to competition next weekend at the Kip & Kirk Relays hosted by UCM in Warrensburg, Mo.

The takeaway

This midseason meet allowed the UIS men's track team to assess their progress and make any necessary adjustments ahead of an important upcoming event, the Kip & Kirk Relays, as they continue to work hard and prepare for the rest of the season.