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Still, the performance of Hamline’s track and field teams in past weeks can be described by few words, none so well as “dominant.” That is not to say that the Pipers have run away (pardon the pun) with every race, for there are some areas in which neither team has been able to capitalize. Rather, the team has enjoyed a place atop the MIAC tables that few in recent history have been able to attain, and even fewer have been able to keep. Since the MIAC Indoor Championships two weeks ago, the Pipers have had reason to celebrate.

Keidra Anderson made MIAC history, breaking an 11 year-old record in the 5,000 meter run. The very next day, she took the title in the 3,000 meter. But Anderson wasn’t the only Piper to grace the podium. Dana Luiken won the competition’s pentathlon in fine form, while taking seventh and eighth in the 55 meter hurtles and the high jump, respectively.

The day for the mens side was a roller-coaster ride. After a disqualification in the 800-meter relay, it looked as though the men would be stuck with third or even fourth place. As if on cue, the 3000 meter run was off with the gun, and with the team’s last chance at redemption. The distance crew of Travis Bristow, Brandon Gleason, and Chris Yotter brought the team to a tie for second place by taking second, third, and fourth, earning 19 points for the team. The Johnnies, who were the other half of the tie, were only able to capture one point. In the final event of the day, the 1600-meter relay team of Adam Lehner, Steve Dupic, Shawn Smith and Jason Engedahl pushed Hamline over the top of St. Johns, securing the second spot.

Jake Kruger provided further inspiration, as he became the only male Piper to take a MIAC championship this season. Kruger overcame a very competitive pole-vaulting field to win with a jump of 15’ 3”.

Neither team was able to take the top spot at the Championships, but that doesn’t take away from this years achievements. Sports dominance doesn’t necessarily mean crushing the opposing teams at ever opportunity, though obliterating the competition is always a plus. True dominance comes from a team’s self master, their ability to overcome even their own limitations and improve where little improvement was thought possible.

At the risk of sounding like a cheerleader -an accusation that has, to date, never been directed toward me- achievement of the magnitude exhibited by Hamline’s track teams and staff is simply put, impressive. And though these athletes compete at the college level, their demeanor, their dedication, and the authority with which they command their respective events is nothing, if not professional.