March 22, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ---- Samford University senior pole vaulter Mark Holmes and sophomore runners Michael Smith and Robyn DeBenedet were named OVC Outdoor Track and Field Athletes of the Week following their performances at the 2006 Alabama Relays, it was announced Monday by the league office.

The Bulldogs claimed three of the four track and field weekly honors, which were awarded Monday for the first time this outdoor season. The Ohio Valley Conference awards a track athlete and a field athlete on the men's and women's side each week following their performances over the past week.

"Its awesome to have three of our kids recognized this week for their accomplishment," said Samford head coach Glenn McWaters. "It's always exciting when the conference honors our athletes as top performers in their events. This is a great start to our outdoor season."

Holmes was named Male Field Athlete of the Week following his vault of 15'01'' to finish third in the men's collegiate pole vault competition. This marks the second time in 2006 that Holmes has received this honor. The Niceville, Fla., native was also named Male Field Athlete of the Week on Feb. 14, during the indoor season.

DeBenedet was awarded Female Track Athlete of the Week after she ran a personal-best 4:36.16 in the 1,500 meters to finish third overall at the Alabama Relays. The Jacksonville, Fla., native was second among NCAA Division 1 collegiate athletes in the event.

Smith received the Male Track Athlete of the Week award following his second-place finish in the men's 400-meter hurdles on Saturday at the Alabama Relays. The 2005 NCAA Regional qualifier ran a 52.98 in the event, which was just 0.47 seconds off the 2006 NCAA Regional qualifying mark.

The Bulldogs return to action on March 25th when they head to Troy, Ala., for the 2006 Coach O Invitational, hosted by Troy University.