May 3, 2007

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Head coach Karen Dennis and members of the women's track and field team met with media Thursday at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. Dennis and the Buckeyes conducted interviews with local media to preview the 2007 Jesse Owens Classic. The meet begins at 10 a.m. Saturday in JOMS.

Karen Dennis, women's track and field head coach
On the Jesse Owens Classic
"This is a great showcase for all of our athletes. We are trying to bring in more and more competition each year. We are also working on moving the date, so that it does not fall right before the Big Ten Championships. We have already received information that several Big Ten teams plan to attend next year. This is also a great chance for us as coaches to see some of the high school talent in the state. With the Ohio track and field state championships here, teams love getting out here."

On Jesse Owens
"He is Ohio State track and field. With his name on this stadium and on this meet, we always bring in some great competitors. It is just a testament to who he was and what he means to track and field."

Veronica Jatsek, junior thrower
On the season
"It has been a great season for me this year. I have to give credit to all of my coaches and all of the people that have believed in me over the years. Having Lenny (Jatsek) around has also been a big lift. He is always pushing me and always seems to say the right thing."