Michael Stigler’s 48.44 time in the 400-meter hurdles, set at the Texas Relays, remains the fastest mark in the world thus far in 2015.
He’s a must-watch at this weekend’s Kansas Relays for anybody who hasn’t seen him float so smoothly over the hurdles. The 400-meter final is scheduled for 3:16 p.m. Saturday.
A passionate track-and-field enthusiast, Stigler not only loves participating, he enjoys watching the sport as well, and said he wants to coach it when he’s done competing.
“I like all the events from the 100 to the steeplechase,” Stigler said. “Hundred, yeah, all right, who’s the fastest? But steeple, there’s more strategy behind it. That’s what I love about distance races: strategy. Who to sit behind? When to kick? Those races are fun to watch.”
Which teammates does he like to watch the most?
“I love watching Sydney (Conley). We’re close friends,” Stigler said of the standout jumper. “I love watching her. Her long jump, man, she’s a stud. She’s powerful, fast, and she’s a hard worker, man. She’s good.”
Who else?
“Josh Munsch, distance runner,” Stigler said. “Love watching him run. I call him Pretty Boy. He dresses so nice. Clean-cut all the time. Good attitude. I’m like, ‘Man, I want to be like you one day. Maybe you can take me shopping.’ He’s a pleasure to watch because he knows how to compete.”
Members of KU’s team have logged performances that rank in the top 10 in school history in 14 events. Lindsay Vollmer holds the school record in the heptathlon. Other women with top 10 marks: Anastasiya Muchkayev (shot put, discus), Conley (long jump), Hannah Richardson (1,500 meters) and Daina Levy (Hammer throw).
Four athletes from Lawrence will compete for Kansas this weekend: Trevor Hillis, Austin Hoag, Teri Huslig and Logan Sloan.
