SPOKANE, Wash. - Whitworth University runners will take their shot at qualifying for the NCAA Division III Championship meet this weekend when they compete at the NCAA Division III West Regional at McIvor Park in Estacada, Oregon. The women's race is at 11:00 a.m. and the men follow at noon. Lewis & Clark College of the Northwest Conference is the host school.

Nick Gallagher

The top two teams and top seven individuals not on those teams will qualify to compete at the national meet on November 17th at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. In addition, there will be 16 wildcard team selections from the eight regions throughout the country.

The Whitworth men finished third at the Northwest Conference championships and appear to have the better chance of qualifying as a team. The Pirates have been led by freshman Nick Gallagher and sophomore Dusty Caseria this season.

The Whitworth women were fifth at the NWC Championships, but a strong performance among a more muddled field that will include teams from California and Colorado, could mean a chance to qualify as well. Sophomore Jo E Mayer will be a contender for an individual spot nonetheless.