Natalie Block competed in the quarterfinals of the 400-meter hurdles at the NCAA West Preliminary Round hosted by Arkansas at John McDonnell Field on May 30. Block recorded a time of 56.82 seconds, marking the second-fastest performance of her career and placing her 12th overall in a competitive field.
Despite achieving one of the top times, Block did not advance to the NCAA Championships semifinals in Eugene, Oregon, due to the event’s automatic qualifying format. Head coach Andrew Basler said, “Finishing 12th, but without a ‘q’ after your time definitely stings. Natalie did not have a typical season leading up to the NCAA West. Due to some health reasons, we had to pull back after just her 2nd race in early April. We had to think outside of the box with her training. Through it all, she stayed composed and ready. When she did practice on her feet, her hurdle reps indicated 54-55 second potential. But, there is something to be said about what you learn and gain from actual competition reps. Natalie just did not have those opportunities leading to this weekend which could have helped.”
Basler added, “She should be very proud of her effort today. She ran the 2nd fastest time of her career… a time that would have qualified for NCAA each of the last two years.”
The Milwaukee Panthers women’s track and field team competes in both indoor and outdoor events as part of its athletic schedule and is affiliated with NCAA Division I athletics as well as being a member institution within the Horizon League, according to the official website. The team operates out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and supports student-athletes academically and athletically.
The Panthers continue their participation across various competitions throughout each season while contributing to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s athletic legacy.
