KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- The Western Michigan track and field team is set to host Mid-American Conference rivals Eastern Michigan for the Bronco Classic on Friday beginning at 1 p.m. at the Kanley Track & Field complex.

It's just the second meet of the outdoor season for the Broncos, but head coach Kelly Lycan has already been pleased with the results he's seen.

"I thought we had some really good marks, especially on the track," said Lycan. "It was a good start off to the season down in Houston."

One of those runners off to a good start is junior Claire Gilbert. Gilbert, who specializes in distance and middle-distance races, is having a breakout year after successful cross country and indoor track seasons. Last weekend Gilbert finished seventh overall in the 1,500-meter run to start off the outdoor season.

"It took a while to sort out some of the nagging injury problems she had," said Lycan on Gilbert's first two years with the Broncos. "Once we got those sorted out she really dedicated herself over the summer. Claire really worked at it and got into great shape. Coach (Bekah) Smeltzer has done a great job of guiding her and helping her progress."

Lycan also praised her racing instincts and decision making as keys leading to her breakout year.

Gilbert will have a tough test in the 1,5000 on Friday, with distance and middle distance being one of the many strengths of the reigning Indoor MAC Champion Eagles.

BRONCO CLASSIC SCHEDULE

Field Events
1 p.m. - Hammer
2 p.m. - Shot put
2:15 p.m. - Pole Vault
2:30 p.m. - Long Jump
3:00 p.m. - Javelin
3:30 p.m. - Triple Jump
4:15 p.m. - High Jump
4:15 p.m. - Discus

Running Events
4:50 p.m. - 4x100m Relay
5:00 p.m. - 1,500m Run
5:15 p.m. - 100m High Hurdles
5:30 p.m. - 400m Dash
5:40 p.m. - 100m Dash
5:50 p.m. - 800m Run
6:05 p.m. - 400m High Hurdles
6:20 p.m. - 200m Dash
6:35 p.m. - 3,000m Run
6:50 p.m. - 4x400m Relay