RALEIGH, N.C. – Western Carolina senior Ryan Eldridge and freshman Justin Hayes both competed in the men's shot put and men's 5,000-meter run respectively on Thursday on the opening day of the Raleigh Relays at Paul Derr Track.

Eldridge recorded a top of throw of 15.02 meters (49'3.5") to finish in 34^th place out of 45 competitors in the men's shot put.  Of the three student-athletes entered in the event from SoCon schools, Eldridge was the top finisher.

Hayes completed the men's 5,000-meter run with a time of 14:47.55. The Cary, N.C. product finished in 167^th in a race that had over 200 competitors.

The Catamounts return to action on Friday, continuing at the Raleigh Relays as well as beginning competition at the Don McGarey Invitational hosted by Kennesaw State. Live stats for both events can be found via links on catamountsports.com

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