The Missouri State track and field team turned in some personal-best times at this weekend’s Iowa State Classic in Ames, Iowa, a meet that featured over 90 NCAA Division I teams. Sophomore Leander Ernest had the top finish for the Bears, placing sixth overall in the 800 meter with a time of 2:07.90.

Leander’s time is the 16th fastest time in the nation this year and is a NCAA national championship qualifying performance. Her mark set a new Bear record that was previously held by by All-American Masherre Harrison in 2001.

Jacqui Lindsey, Ernest, Courtenee Boulard and Yaneika Malcom teamed for a time of 3:42.77 in the 4x400 meter relay to capture a fouth-place finish. Their time ranks first in the Valley this season.

In the 3000 meter event, Carrie Vestal posted the third fastest time in school history with a personal best time of 9:51.41 taking 15th place. Teammate Staci Nelson ran a personal best time of 10:20.35 in the 300-meter event.

Yanieka Malcolm posted at time of 56.07 to finish 20th in the 400 meter race and Jacqui Lindsey clocked a time of 57.60 to finish 36th in the 400 meter race.

The Bears will be back on the track in two weeks for the MVC Indoor Track and Field Championship on March 1-2, in Cedar Falls, Iowa.