Even with "tired" legs, decathlete Jake Arnold was able to set a personal best yesterday.

Running the 400-meter in 50.99, the sophomore from Santa Rosa, Calif., posted a personal record in day one of the Wildcat Combined Events at Drachman Stadium.

"Even though my legs weren't totally fresh, I ran pretty good," he said.

Arnold said that he would not participate in day two of the Combined Events, citing the need for rest.

"We've been training really hard this week," he said. "And with nationals a week and a half ago, it was just a little much."

In Thursday's other events, Arnold ran the 100-meter in 11.60 and had a good showing in the shot put with a throw of 38-6 3/4.

Arnold said he would improve upon his marks with experience.

"I have a lot of stuff to work on before I take on a whole decathlon," he said.

Competition continues today at 11 a.m.

UA excited for shootout "I'm cleared! I'm cleared!"

The words of sophomore hurdler Jennifer Whitlock rang clear as she ran across the grass at Drachman Stadium during practice earlier this week, as she rejoined her teammates following a three-week absence.

"I'll bet you've never seen anybody this excited to practice," Whitlock said with a smile.

Her energy reflects the general attitude of the Wildcat track and field teams heading into Saturday's Jim Click Shootout, held at Drachman Stadium beginning at 11 a.m.

The third in a string of four consecutive home meets figures to be a tough one for the Wildcats, with Tennessee and Wisconsin looming.

"Anytime you have such a diverse crossing of schools come in, it really helps build you in terms of character and as a competitor early in the year," Arizona head coach Fred Harvey said.

After getting some much-needed rest today, Arnold will compete tomorrow in the javelin, discus and the 4-by-400 relay.

The Wildcats hope to use this meet to build momentum in the young outdoor season.

"Our overall goal (tomorrow) is to be as competitive as we possibly can, and try to ring up as many NCAA regional qualifiers as we possibly can. It makes it a lot easier to do it when you bring in this level of competition," Harvey said.