SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Katara Nelson continued New Mexico State's performance at the NCAA West Preliminaries at Hornet Stadium on Friday. The senior finished in 18^th overall, ending her season as an individual competitor.
 
"Katara cleaned up her race and looked much better today," volunteer assistant sprints coach Jenna Banegas said. "She held her composure and fought hard. When athletes are able to do that in these major competitions, there's no room for disappointment no matter the outcome."
 
Nelson ran in the final heat of the 400m and clocked in with a time of 53.20. The senior finished in seventh in her heat and 18^th overall in the event quarterfinals.
 
"We are all very proud of her and what she has accomplished in them this season," Banegas said. "Now we look forward to watching our team compete tomorrow."  
 
Hannah Smith kicks off the Aggies' run on Saturday with the triple jump, beginning at 5:30 p.m. MT. Nelson has another chance to punch her ticket to Eugene, Ore., when she competes with teammates Dominique Joiner, Tanisha Scott, and Lashira Tremble in the 4 x 100m relay at 7:15 p.m.
 
The top-12 finishers from each event at the regional qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Championships, which are set to take place in Eugene, Ore., from June 6-9. Fans can follow along with the live results from the meet, provided by the NCAA.