Jan. 14, 2010

BOONE, NC - After over a month of rest, the Winston-Salem State University Rams and Lady Rams indoor track & field teams will return to action when they take part in the Appalachian Indoor Open, Friday. The two teams will get their first taste of action in over a month and both squads are geared up for their first action of the new year.

The Rams and Lady Rams were impressive in their last action, but will face a new challenge when they head to the mountains of Boone, North Carolina. At an elevation of 3,266 feet, the thinner air and less oxygen could pose a challenge for the two teams, but the squads have spent the last month preparing for this action. With shorter distances to cover and thinner air, the WSSU sprinters could have a big day at the meet. Looking to lead the way for the Rams will be senior sprinter Paul Williams who won the men's 200m dash at the 2009 Liberty Kick Off. He took first place with a 22.86 in the event. Lady Ram sprinter Denesha Jiles is also poised for a big day after placing 6th in the women's 60m dash at the 2009 Liberty Kick Off.

Not to be outdone, the Rams and Lady Rams distance runners are also poised for a great effort behind the strong running of sophomore Andrew Chebii and freshman Tyrah Winfrey, who both had some great efforts during the cross country season and at the 2009 Liberty Kick Off. Chebii opened the indoor season on a high note winning the 800m run and the mile run at the 2009 Liberty Kick Off as well. Winfrey placed second in the women's 800m run at the event as well.

The Appalachian Indoor Open is scheduled for a 3:00 p.m. start at the George Holmes Convocation Center and Varsity Gym in Boone, North Carolina. For more information on Rams and Lady Rams track & field, contact the WSSU Office of Athletic Media Relations at (336) 750-2909 or log on to www.WSSURams.com.