WALNUT, Calif. – The University of Dayton women's track and field team had a strong start to the weekend with outstanding performances at the Mt. SAC Relays in California.

Nicole Cargill set a new school record in the 3000m steeplechase with a time of 10:20.88. She broke her own mark of 10:35.10 that she set on May 5, 2013. Cargill took first place in the event by a full six seconds and posted a Top 25 performance nationally.

Also in the women's 3000m steeple chase on Thursday, Olivia Albers finished fourth in her heat with a time of 10:37.85. That improved on her personal record by almost 22 seconds.

Lizzie Gleason was the final competitor on the day with a time of 10:55.18 in the steeple chase.

Distance coach Sarah Haveman discussed the women's performances on Thursday.

"The ladies took advantage of the competition and raced great," stated Haveman. "They are leading the program in a great direction and we are extremely proud of them. Cargill's performance is a great start to what she is capable of. Her focus and hard work is paying off and she earned that great performance this weekend. We are in a great place. "

The Flyers will continue with two events on Friday as Dayton will also compete in the Jesse Owens Classic in Columbus.