New York, NY and West Long Branch, NJ –Marques Merriweather, Jacob Eddinger, and Artie Burgess each earned IC4A qualifications, while Abraham Ohiokhai-Benson took first in the college weight throw today as the Rider University men's track and field team heads into the second day at the Rutgers Open in New York and the Monmouth Winter Collegiate in West Long Branch.

At the Rutgers Open, Merriweather earned his IC4A qualification after his finish of 8.13 in the 60H. Eddinger's mark of 17.22m in the weight throw earned him an IC4A qualification, while Artie Burgess finished the 60 in 6.90 to earn his IC4A mark. Abraham Ohiokhai-Benson claimed first place at 16.93m in the weight throw.

Quotes & Notes
"We had many outstanding performances today. We were looking to get some confidence and some final tune ups prior to the MAAC Championships next weekend and we were able to achieve that today. The athletes really stepped up to get a lot of PRs and a bunch of ECAC/IC4A qualifying marks. We need to fix a few things and then bring it next weekend. 

We had some nice performances in the throws from Eddinger, & Ohiokhai-Benson. Each of them have had really good seasons and they are ready for some big throws next weekend." -Rider Head Coach Bob Hamer

"The first day was all field events and we had a strong meet with a lot of confidence building marks, which is a good sign as we head into the MAAC Championships. J. Lee, & D. Lee all had season best marks. We are hopeful to carry this momentum into tomorrow's events." – Rider Head Coach Bob Hamer