Marshall University Athletics
Saunders Named Sun Belt Men’s Track Athlete of the Week
4/24/2024 2:00:00 PM | Track and Field
Wheeling native leads the conference in 3K Steeplechase time
NEW ORLEANS – Marshall graduate senior Ronnie Saunders has been named the Sun Belt Conference Men's Track Athlete of the Week by the league office Wednesday.
Saunders ran a personal-best 9:02.41 in the Men's 3K Steeplechase last weekend at the UVA Classic. That time currently ranks 1st in the SBC.
The Wheeling native finished runner-up in the Steeplechase at the SBC Outdoor Championships last year. Saunders had never competed in the event until last season, with his now-PR time of 9:02.41 being over 30 seconds faster than his first mark set in 2023.
"Ronnie has worked hard throughout his career and he continues to show it by the way he competes," Director of Track and Field Keith Roberts said. "He brings a high level of intensity at practice and at the meets. His fearless mentality and tireless work ethic is a combination for success."
In addition to track and field, Saunders has been a five-year letterwinner on Marshall's cross country team. He finished his XC career with a 10K PR at the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regionals last November.
"I am so stoked for Ronnie," Distance Coach Caleb Bowen said. "He has been an awesome leader for our team this year and it's exciting to see his hard work pay off. He is a tough kid and I can't wait to see what he does as we enter championship season"
Marshall men's track and field is seeking its first individual conference championship since returning prior to the start of last season. Casey Batey was the last Herd men's T&F athlete to win a conference title when he won gold in the MAC 1500 in 2002.
Follow the team on Twitter and Instagram @HerdTFXC for coverage all season long of Marshall Track and Field
To follow all Thundering Herd sports and get live stats, schedules, and free live audio, download the Marshall Athletics App for iOS or Android!
