TERRE HAUTE, IND. 3/13/09 -  A pair of Keene State runners from Derry, N.H. moved onto the finals after posting qualifying times in their heats on Friday at the NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field Championship being held at the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Ind.

Sophomore Craig MacPherson had the third best time (4:11.56) in the mile heat while Peter Najem, a senior, clocked the sixth best time (1:54.30) in the 800-meter heat. Both will race in the finals of their respective events on Saturday.

Friday the 13th proved to be unlucky for Keene State sophomore thrower Bryan Kolacz (Brentwood, N.H.) who failed to qualify for the finals in the 35-lb weight throw event.  Kolacz was disqualified in all three of his attempts. 

MacPherson, who earned All-America with his third place finish at last year's indoor national meet, led throughout his heat before surrendering the top spot late in the race.  "The object was to qualify and I accomplished that," said MacPherson.  "Just another day at the races."

Peter Kosgei from Hamilton College had the top time (4:11.02) in the mile heat.

Making a bid for his first All-America honor, Najem got off to a slow start but was able to weave his way around a few runners to get a qualifying time.  "I was a little concerned when I was near the back of the pack," said Najem.  "In the third lap there was an opening, I was able to get through and had a good kick at the end."

Brian Sames from the University of St. Thomas had the top time (1:53.70) in the 800-meter heat.

Both Owl runners feel they have enough in their tanks to challenge for All-America honors when they return to the track on Saturday.