Marietta, OH – Valerie Kendrick served as the lone competitor for UPIKE women's track and field Friday afternoon in the Pioneer Open. In the field of three teams, the Bears finished runner-up thanks to Kendrick's winning performance in the women's shot-put event.

For the third time this season, the freshman swept the field in the women's shot-put to earn the top finish. This time the Broadhead, KY native bested three other throwers with a distance of 11.84 meters, 1.22 meters farther than the runner-up. Kendrick's win in the shot-put contributed 10 points towards the Bears team total.

In the women's weight throw, Kendrick threw for a distance of 10.14 meters which earned her third place. The third-place finish was good for six points towards the Bears team total.

With more competitors, Marietta took the top spot with 212 points by the final count while Kendrick put the Bears in second with 16 over WVU Tech's 15 points.

"This was a great meet to knock off the rust after winter break," said Head Coach David Espinoza, "to have everyone score is a great way to start the new year!"

Women's track and field return to action on Saturday, January 15th as they head to Beaver Falls, PA for the Spire Collegiate Season Opener.