By John Evanko

The stage is set for the first division one intramural competition of the year. The track meet will begin today at 3 p.m. with the throwing events, held at the University of Louisville throwing center.
The rest of the events will be at 6 p.m. at Cardinal Park. Twelve events will be held, each with a women’s and men’s division. There is an event for everyone and more than 200 participants are expected to compete. 
The high number of athletes involved in addition to the meet being held at U of L’s track will help make the track meet one of the signature events on the intramural schedule.
This marks the first of eight division one competitions which will be held this year and everyone is bringing their “A” game to get a jump-start on the rest of the competition.
One sorority that definitely will be ready to go is Delta Zeta, the defending track meet champions and winners of last season’s Intramural Championship.
“It is the first big event and you want to set your standards for the year,” Katy Spradlin, a member of Delta Zeta, said. “It is very important to come out and set the tone.”
The men will undoubtedly be coming out with that same competitive attitude.
“It is important to get off on the right foot to get everyone excited about the upcoming year,” said Cole McKeel of Sigma Chi, who will be looking to defend their intramural championship from last year.
Adding to the fierce atmosphere will be the fact that the event will be held on U of L’s track, which includes use of the scoreboard and loudspeaker.
“In the past, teams did not really know where they stood or what they needed to win,” John Smith, Assistant Director of intramurals, said. “On the new track, we can utilize the loudspeaker and scoreboard and this will definitely add to the excitement.”
The athletes agree there is definitely a difference when competing at Cardinal Park.
“It makes you feel like you’re competing for your college rather than just your fraternity,” McKeel said. “It’s definitely a unique experience.”
Last year, eight intramural records were broken. This year should be no less exciting and everyone is eager for events to begin.
“There are rivalries and the competition is exciting,” Spradlin said. “It is just such a great atmosphere.”